in turmoil

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in turmoil" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of confusion, disorder, or unrest, often in reference to emotions, situations, or environments. Example: "The country was in turmoil after the sudden change in government, leading to widespread protests and uncertainty."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Markets are in turmoil.

The New York Times

Egypt is in turmoil.

The New York Times

The institution was in turmoil.

The New Yorker

Inter, though, is in turmoil.

The New York Times - Sports

The campus is in turmoil.

The New York Times - Sports

The agency was in turmoil.

The New York Times

Lebanon was in turmoil.

The New York Times

At this time, Egypt was in turmoil.

The New York Times - Science

For British bookselling is in turmoil.

The Economist

The country was in turmoil.

Columbia University

The financial markets are in turmoil.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in turmoil" to describe situations characterized by significant disruption, confusion, or emotional distress. Ensure the subject is clearly defined (e.g., "The stock market is in turmoil").

Common error

Avoid using "in turmoil" for minor inconveniences or temporary setbacks. This phrase implies a significant and widespread disturbance, not just a slight hiccup.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in turmoil" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically used as an adjective to describe the state or condition of a noun. According to Ludwig AI, it indicates a state of disturbance, confusion, or uncertainty.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in turmoil" effectively describes scenarios marked by significant disruption, confusion, or distress. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and frequently used across diverse contexts, including news, academia, and business. While versatile, it's crucial to reserve "in turmoil" for situations involving considerable disruption rather than minor setbacks. Alternatives like "in chaos" or "in disarray" can provide similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis. The sources indicate that this phrase is very common.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in a state of chaos

This alternative emphasizes the lack of order and complete confusion.

in complete disarray

This alternative highlights the disorganized and disordered state of something.

experiencing upheaval

This suggests a more sudden and forceful disruption or change.

in a state of unrest

This alternative emphasizes a lack of peace and stability, especially in a social or political context.

undergoing turbulence

This implies a period of instability and difficulty, often in a metaphorical sense.

facing disruption

This alternative points to an interruption or disturbance of the normal course of events.

in a disturbed state

This focuses on the emotional or mental agitation caused by the situation.

beset by troubles

This suggests that the subject is afflicted or plagued by problems and difficulties.

embroiled in conflict

This alternative highlights active disagreement and struggle.

grappling with instability

This suggests a struggle to maintain balance and order in the face of change.

FAQs

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

The phrase "in turmoil" is used to describe situations of great disturbance, confusion, or uncertainty. For example, "The country was "in turmoil" after the election results were announced".

What are some alternatives to saying "in turmoil"?

You can use alternatives like "in chaos", "in disarray", or "in upheaval" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "the world is in turmoil"?

Yes, "the world is in turmoil" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe a period of widespread instability, conflict, or disorder.

What's the difference between "in turmoil" and "in crisis"?

"In turmoil" generally suggests a state of confusion or agitation, while "in crisis" implies a critical turning point or dangerous situation. A situation "in turmoil" may or may not be a crisis, but a crisis is always a state of significant disruption.