a troublemaker

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a troublemaker" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who causes problems or disruptions, often in a playful or mischievous way. Example: "The teacher warned us about the new student, saying he was known to be a troublemaker in his previous school."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Is a troublemaker.

Independent

I'm not a troublemaker".

The New York Times - Sports

"He's not a troublemaker".

The New York Times

"You're not a troublemaker.

The New Yorker

He's a troublemaker, then.

The New York Times - Magazine

I'm a troublemaker.

The Guardian - Music

"He wasn't a troublemaker," she said.

The New York Times

"They say I'm a troublemaker".

The New Yorker

They thought I was a troublemaker probably.

Independent

I was known as a troublemaker.

The New York Times

"I was labeled a troublemaker".

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone as "a troublemaker", consider the specific context and the nature of the trouble they cause. Is it playful mischief, serious disruption, or something in between? This will help you choose the most appropriate and accurate term.

Common error

Avoid using "a troublemaker" as a generic label for anyone who causes problems. Instead, be specific about the individual's actions and their impact. For example, instead of simply calling someone "a troublemaker", you might say they "frequently challenge authority" or "have a tendency to stir up conflict".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a troublemaker" functions primarily as a noun phrase, specifically a predicate nominative or appositive. It identifies or describes a person or entity known for causing trouble. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Formal & Business

16%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Science

6%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a troublemaker" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe someone who causes problems or disruptions. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's appropriate in various contexts, ranging from neutral news reports to more informal conversations. When using the phrase, consider the specific context and the type of trouble being caused to ensure accuracy and avoid overuse. Related terms like ""a mischief maker"" or ""a rabble-rouser"" can provide a more nuanced description. The phrase appears most frequently in News & Media, Formal & Business, and Academia sources. Remember to be mindful and precise in its application.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a mischief-maker

Focuses on playful or harmless trouble, often associated with children.

a rabble-rouser

Suggests someone who stirs up discontent among a crowd of people.

an agitator

Implies someone who persistently tries to incite political or social change.

a disruptive influence

Highlights the negative impact on order or progress.

a rebel

Emphasizes defiance of authority or convention.

a maverick

Stresses independence and nonconformity, sometimes with a hint of admiration.

a problem child

Often used in educational contexts, referring to a student who causes difficulties.

a handful

Indicates someone difficult to manage or control.

a thorn in someone's side

Highlights the persistent annoyance or irritation caused to someone else.

a bad apple

Suggests a corrupting influence on a group.

FAQs

How can I use "a troublemaker" in a sentence?

You can use "a troublemaker" to describe someone who causes problems or stirs up trouble, as in, "He was known as "a troublemaker" in school because he always challenged the rules."

What are some synonyms for "a troublemaker"?

Alternatives to "a troublemaker" include "a mischief maker", "a rabble-rouser", or "an agitator", depending on the specific context and type of trouble caused.

Is it always negative to be called "a troublemaker"?

While "a troublemaker" typically has negative connotations, it can sometimes be used in a playful or even admiring way to describe someone who challenges the status quo or is unafraid to speak their mind. It depends on the context and the speaker's intent.

What is the difference between "a troublemaker" and "a rebel"?

While both terms describe someone who goes against the norm, "a rebel" often implies a more principled or ideological opposition to authority, whereas ""a troublemaker"" may simply be someone who enjoys causing chaos or disruption without a specific cause.