cause a disturbance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cause a disturbance" is correct, and it is commonly used in written English.
For example: The loud music from the house next door caused a disturbance in the neighborhood.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

You know, they may cause a disturbance.

The Washington Post

Some even claimed that he had been paid to cause a disturbance.

The New York Times

Quite a few of them were just wanting to cause a disturbance.

The Guardian

And they were paying a lot of attention not to cause a disturbance".

The New York Times

Meetings and marches may be banned if they are likely to cause a disturbance or "promote disaffection," the regulations say.

The New York Times

The president fears having young people in the streets would cause a disturbance". Other NGOs joined the criticism.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

When Fathers and Sons was published it caused a disturbance.

The Guardian

He just likes causing a disturbance, however pointless.

The Guardian - Music

The storm caused a disturbance in the airline force.

The New York Times

You would need evidence that the noise interferes with sleep or causes a disturbance.

The Guardian - Money

He was first imprisoned in 1973 for 12 months for causing a disturbance in a bar.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "cause a disturbance", consider the specific context and choose synonyms like "create a disruption" or "stir up trouble" for greater precision. "Cause a disturbance" is suitable for general instances of disruption.

Common error

Avoid using "cause a disturbance" in highly formal or professional writing; opt for more sophisticated synonyms such as "precipitate a disruption" or "instigate unrest" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cause a disturbance" functions as a verb phrase. It typically describes an action that leads to the disruption of peace, order, or normal activity. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

4%

Academia

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "cause a disturbance" is a common and grammatically correct verb phrase used to describe actions that disrupt peace or order. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, showing its prevalence across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. When using this phrase, it's important to consider the specific nuance you want to convey and, if necessary, choose alternative expressions such as "create a disruption" or "stir up trouble". While generally neutral, it's advisable to use more formal synonyms in professional writing to maintain an appropriate tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

create a disruption

Focuses on the act of interrupting or interfering with a normal process or activity.

provoke a commotion

Emphasizes the act of inciting a noisy and chaotic situation.

instigate a disorder

Highlights the initiation of a state of confusion or lack of order.

stir up trouble

Implies the creation of problems or conflict.

foment unrest

Suggests the promotion of dissatisfaction and agitation.

spark a melee

Implies initiating a confused hand-to-hand fight or struggle among several people.

trigger an uproar

Highlights the act of setting off a loud and vehement expression of disapproval or protest.

generate chaos

Focuses on the production of complete disorder and confusion.

brew discord

Suggests the gradual development of disagreement and lack of harmony.

invite pandemonium

Implies creating a wild and noisy situation, a scene of uproar or confusion.

FAQs

How can I use "cause a disturbance" in a sentence?

You can use "cause a disturbance" to describe an action that disrupts peace or order. For example: "The protesters attempted to cause a disturbance during the meeting."

What are some alternatives to "cause a disturbance"?

Alternatives include "create a disruption", "stir up trouble", or "provoke a commotion" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "cause a disturbance" formal or informal?

"Cause a disturbance" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although more formal alternatives may be preferred in professional writing.

What's the difference between "cause a disturbance" and "cause a commotion"?

"Cause a disturbance" generally refers to disrupting peace or order, while "cause a commotion" emphasizes creating a noisy and chaotic situation. Thus, "cause a commotion" typically implies a more significant and noticeable disruption.