adverb
confused, in a mess
B1
Durcheinander is a modal adverb meaning 'confused' or 'in a mess' and 'confusedly'. It’s invariable and commonly used predicatively with sein: 'durcheinander sein' (to be confused/upset). Also describes disorderly situations. Not reflexive, no case, and doesn’t take specific prepositions. Often follows verbs describing mental state or physical disarray.
Examples
Nach der Prüfung war er total durcheinander.
After the exam he was completely confused.
Die Teilnehmer waren durcheinander, weil der Zeitplan kurzfristig geändert worden war.
The participants were confused because the schedule had been changed at short notice.
Das Kinderzimmer sieht immer durcheinander aus.
The children's room always looks like a mess.
Details
Mnemonics
picture a room with chairs and books scattered everywhere, as if someone rushed through a door — everything is 'durcheinander'
sounds a bit like 'door-chin-and-err' — imagine things knocked through a door and jumbled
Notes
durcheinander can function like an adverb or predicative adjective (Er ist durcheinander). It describes mental confusion or physical disorder.