make trouble

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make trouble" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when referring to causing problems or difficulties for someone or something. Example: "He tends to make trouble wherever he goes." Alternative expressions include "cause trouble," "create problems," and "stir up trouble."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They make trouble.

The New Yorker

"He likes to make trouble".

The New Yorker

"Well I can make trouble".

The New Yorker

These people don't make trouble.

The Guardian

A desire to make trouble?

The Economist

Outside it will make trouble.

The New York Times

"Can't you make trouble?" he insisted.

The New Yorker

But the MMA can make trouble.

The Economist

"I don't want to make trouble".

The New York Times

Almost immediately, she began to make trouble.

Independent

I'm not there to make trouble.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "make trouble", consider the specific context to ensure it accurately reflects the intended level of disruption or conflict. Choose synonyms like "cause problems" or "stir up conflict" for more precise meaning.

Common error

While "make trouble" is widely understood, it can sound informal in professional or academic writing. Opt for more formal alternatives such as "create disturbances" or "instigate problems" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make trouble" functions as a verb phrase, typically used as a predicate in a sentence. It describes the action of creating difficulties, problems, or disturbances. As shown in the Ludwig AI examples, it's frequently used to characterize disruptive behavior.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "make trouble" is a common and grammatically correct verb phrase used to describe the act of causing problems or disturbances. Ludwig AI confirms its wide usage, particularly in News & Media. While acceptable in most contexts, it is important to consider the formality of the situation and choose synonyms like "cause problems" or "stir up conflict" for more formal settings. Avoid overusing it in professional or academic writing to maintain a polished and precise tone. Be mindful of choosing the most accurate term for describing or accusing someone of causing problems.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cause problems

Focuses more on the direct result of creating difficulties or issues.

instigate problems

Highlights the role of initiating or starting the difficulties.

create disturbances

Emphasizes disrupting peace or order, often in a public setting.

stir up conflict

Implies actively provoking or instigating disagreements and disputes.

rock the boat

Refers to disrupting a stable situation and challenging the status quo.

raise hell

Is a more informal and forceful way of saying someone is creating chaos or problems.

play havoc

Stresses the disarray and disruption caused by someone's actions.

cause an uproar

Highlights creating a significant public reaction or commotion.

foment unrest

Suggests deliberately encouraging discontent or rebellion.

engineer discord

Implies a calculated effort to produce disagreement or conflict.

FAQs

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

You can use "make trouble" to describe someone causing problems or difficulties. For example, "The prisoners tried to make trouble for the guards".

What are some synonyms for "make trouble"?

Alternatives to "make trouble" include "cause problems", "stir up conflict", or "create disturbances" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "make trouble" or "cause trouble"?

"Make trouble" and "cause trouble" are largely interchangeable. "Cause trouble" might sound slightly more formal, but both are acceptable in most contexts. The choice depends on your personal preference and the flow of your writing.

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "make trouble"?

The phrase "make trouble" might be inappropriate in highly formal or academic writing where a more precise or sophisticated vocabulary is expected. In such cases, consider using alternatives such as "instigate problems" or "foment unrest".