The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 6 letter word ADDLES
A
D
D
L
E
S
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "Confuses" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case confuses = addles.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does ADDLES mean?
ADDLES verb- (provincial) To earn, earn by labor; earn money or one's living.
- (provincial) To thrive or grow; to ripen.
- A foolish or dull-witted fellow.
- Liquid filth; mire.
- (provincial) Lees; dregs.
- To make addle; to grow addle; to muddle
- To cause fertilised eggs to lose viability, by killing the developing embryo within through shaking, piercing, freezing or oiling, without breaking the shell.