Trouble

Definition

Trouble refers to a state of distress, difficulty, or concern caused by a problematic situation or issue. It can also describe actions causing inconvenience or harm, or the effort taken to resolve an issue.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈtrʌb.əl/
• Respelling: TRUB-uhl

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈtrʌb.əl/
• Respelling: TRUB-uhl

Etymology

The word "trouble" originates from Old French "troubler," meaning "to disturb or confuse," derived from Late Latin "turbulare," which is based on Latin "turba," meaning "a crowd or disturbance." It entered Middle English in the 13th century, retaining its sense of disturbance or difficulty.

Derivatives

• Troubled (adjective)
• Troublesome (adjective)
• Troubler (noun)
• Troubling (adjective/verb)
• Trouble-free (adjective)

Synonyms

• Difficulty
• Problem
• Distress

Antonyms

• Peace
• Solution
• Harmony

Usage

As a noun, "trouble" describes a problematic or distressing situation. For example, "The company is facing financial trouble."

As a verb, "trouble" means to cause difficulty, concern, or distress. For example, "The loud noise troubled the residents."

Related Terms

• Problem: A situation that requires resolution or causes difficulty.
• Concern: A matter that causes anxiety or worry.
• Disturbance: An interruption or disruption.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A state of difficulty or distress: Refers to problematic circumstances or issues.
  • Example: "He ran into trouble while trying to repair the car."
• A cause of inconvenience or concern: Describes a factor or situation leading to problems.
  • Example: "The bad weather caused a lot of trouble for the travelers."
• Effort or inconvenience taken to resolve an issue: Indicates actions made to address a problem.
  • Example: "Thank you for going to the trouble of fixing this."

Verb

• To disturb or cause distress: Refers to actions that disrupt or cause unease.
  • Example: "The news deeply troubled her."
• To cause difficulty or inconvenience: Indicates actions leading to problems or disruptions.
  • Example: "The broken elevator troubled everyone in the building."