causing trouble

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "causing trouble" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe someone or something that is causing problems or difficulties. Example: The new student was constantly causing trouble in the classroom, disrupting lessons and picking fights with other students.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

I apologise for causing trouble".

The Economist

They're always causing trouble.

The Guardian - Opinion

Then don't be causing trouble.

The New Yorker

You're not doing anything but causing trouble".

The New York Times

It has been causing trouble ever since.

The New York Times - Science

They talk about agents provocateurs from outside causing trouble.

The Economist

Perhaps they would be angry at us for causing trouble.

The New Yorker

"We are deeply sorry for causing trouble to our customers.

The New York Times - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

This causes trouble.

The Economist

"But they cause trouble.

The Economist

Investigative reporters cause trouble.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "causing trouble", consider the specific type of trouble being caused. Use more specific verbs or nouns to provide a clearer and more vivid description, like "causing financial trouble" or "causing legal trouble".

Common error

Avoid relying solely on the generic phrase "causing trouble". Instead, specify the nature of the disturbance. For example, instead of saying "He's always causing trouble", try "He's always disrupting the class" or "He's always instigating fights".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "causing trouble" functions as a gerund phrase, often acting as a noun within a sentence. It describes the act of creating problems or difficulties. Ludwig shows that it is commonly used to describe actions that lead to negative consequences.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "causing trouble" is a commonly used gerund phrase that describes the act of creating problems or difficulties. Ludwig's analysis, supported by numerous examples, indicates that it is grammatically correct and frequently used in various contexts, particularly in news and media. While generally neutral to informal in register, it can be replaced by more specific terms like "creating problems" or "being disruptive" for greater precision. To avoid overuse, consider specifying the nature of the trouble being caused for a more vivid description. The phrase's communicative purpose is often to express disapproval or concern about problematic situations. Ludwig AI's assessment affirms the phrase's validity and provides ample evidence of its practical application.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

creating problems

This alternative is a more direct and general way of saying "causing trouble".

being disruptive

This focuses on the disturbance and interruption caused by the actions.

stirring up conflict

This alternative emphasizes the act of instigating or provoking conflict.

making a nuisance

Focuses on the annoying or bothersome aspect of the trouble.

making waves

This implies creating a disturbance or controversy.

rocking the boat

This implies disrupting a stable or established situation.

fomenting discord

This suggests actively encouraging disagreement and disharmony.

precipitating difficulties

This suggests directly leading to the occurrence of difficulties.

inciting unrest

This alternative is used when the trouble involves public disturbance or rebellion.

raising hell

This is a more informal and emphatic way of saying "causing trouble".

FAQs

How can I use "causing trouble" in a sentence?

You can use "causing trouble" to describe someone or something creating problems or difficulties. For example, "The new policy is causing trouble for small businesses" or "The mischievous child was always causing trouble at school".

What can I say instead of "causing trouble"?

You can use alternatives like "creating problems", "stirring up conflict", or "being disruptive" depending on the context.

Is "causing trouble" formal or informal?

"Causing trouble" is generally considered a neutral to informal expression. In more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "precipitating difficulties" or "fomenting discord".

What's the difference between "causing trouble" and "making waves"?

"Causing trouble" generally refers to creating problems or difficulties. "Making waves" implies creating a disturbance or controversy, often intentionally to challenge the status quo.