a troubled relationship

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a troubled relationship" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a relationship that is experiencing difficulties or conflicts, often in a personal or emotional context. Example: "After years of misunderstandings and arguments, they finally acknowledged that they were in a troubled relationship."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Qatar and Yemen have long had a troubled relationship.

The New York Times

But African nations have a troubled relationship with international justice.

The Guardian

But punk, too, had a troubled relationship to recording.

The New Yorker

Durst had a troubled relationship with his family.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

It was a troubled relationship, and Born and his wife often lived apart.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Alcoholics tend to be afflicted by a troubled relationship with the truth.

Independent

When they first met, Cindy was pursuing medical school after a troubled relationship.

The New York Times

Even relatively new buildings have a troubled relationship with their elevators.

The New York Times

Madrid has a troubled relationship with the separatist inclinations of Catalonia.

The Guardian

Though Pasternak had a troubled relationship with the authorities, he never directly challenged them.

The Guardian - Opinion

And even the few war movies produced have a troubled relationship with the fighting.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing relationships, provide specific examples of the issues or behaviors that make the relationship "a troubled relationship". This adds clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "a troubled relationship" as a vague descriptor. Instead, identify the core problems, such as lack of communication or conflicting values, to give a more nuanced picture.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a troubled relationship" functions as a noun phrase, with "troubled" acting as an adjective modifying the noun "relationship". It typically serves as the subject or object of a sentence, describing a state of discord or difficulty in a connection, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a troubled relationship" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a relationship experiencing difficulties. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread usability across various writing styles. Usage ranges from describing personal dynamics to international relations, as shown in the examples. While generally neutral in tone, its impact is amplified when coupled with specifics about the issues involved. Alternatives such as "a strained relationship" or "a difficult relationship" can be used for subtle variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a strained relationship

Emphasizes tension and lack of ease in the relationship.

a difficult relationship

Highlights the presence of challenges and obstacles.

a rocky relationship

Suggests instability and unpredictable difficulties.

a tumultuous relationship

Implies significant emotional turbulence and conflict.

a dysfunctional relationship

Indicates impaired functioning and unhealthy patterns.

a fractious relationship

Highlights irritability and a tendency towards disagreement.

a contentious relationship

Focuses on frequent arguments and disputes.

a problematic relationship

Points to identifiable issues and sources of concern.

a challenging relationship

Underlines the demanding nature of the relationship.

an unhealthy relationship

Signifies patterns that are detrimental to well-being.

FAQs

How can I describe "a troubled relationship" in more detail?

You can specify the type of troubles, such as "a troubled relationship due to constant arguments" or "a troubled relationship marked by emotional distance".

What are some alternative phrases for "a troubled relationship"?

Consider using "a strained relationship", "a difficult relationship", or "a rocky relationship" to convey similar meanings.

How does "a troubled relationship" differ from "a bad relationship"?

"A troubled relationship" implies difficulties that may be resolved, while "a bad relationship" often suggests more deeply rooted, potentially irreparable issues.

Is it appropriate to use "a troubled relationship" in formal writing?

Yes, "a troubled relationship" is appropriate for formal writing, but consider using more precise language to describe the specific problems within the relationship for greater clarity.