there was turmoil

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "there was turmoil" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of confusion, disorder, or unrest in a situation or environment. Example: "During the political crisis, there was turmoil in the streets as citizens protested against the government."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

A cry went up, there was turmoil.

The New Yorker

There was turmoil inside the parliament, too.

The Guardian

"I didn't see the turmoil, if there was turmoil.

The New York Times

Euro-zone debts are looking increasingly unsustainableLAST week there was turmoil in financial markets.

The Economist

There was turmoil at the top, with four chief executives in six years.

The New York Times - Tech

There was turmoil in Lahore due to the discord between Muslims and Hindus.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

All around him there is turmoil, yet this prophet, who lives in jail by choice and carries his tattered Bible everywhere, provides a certain amount of sanity and saving humor.

The New York Times - Books

There is turmoil from the beginning.

The New York Times - Arts

There is turmoil among the coffee and tea growers.

The New York Times

Many of them want the ability to withdraw money from hedge funds when there is turmoil.

The New York Times

If there's turmoil that follows, that suits their agenda as well".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "there was turmoil" to describe situations where there's a mix of confusion, disorder, and unrest. It's effective for conveying a sense of chaotic instability in both abstract and concrete scenarios.

Common error

While versatile, "there was turmoil" can sound less precise in highly formal or technical writing. Consider stronger, more specific verbs to describe the nature of the unrest for accuracy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "there was turmoil" functions as an existential clause, asserting the presence of a state of disturbance or disorder. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used to introduce a scene of chaos or instability, similar to the examples provided in the search results.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "there was turmoil" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that describes a state of disorder and unrest. As Ludwig AI confirms, it frequently appears in news and media to depict chaotic situations. While versatile, it's important to consider the context and audience, opting for more precise language in highly formal settings. Alternatives like ""there was chaos"" or ""there was unrest"" can provide stronger or more nuanced descriptions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

there was chaos

Replaces "turmoil" with a stronger term implying complete disorder and confusion.

there was unrest

Focuses on public disturbance and discontent rather than general disorder.

there was disorder

Emphasizes a lack of order and organization in the situation.

there was disruption

Highlights the interruption of normal activities or processes.

there was commotion

Suggests noisy excitement and confusion.

there was agitation

Indicates a state of anxiety or nervous excitement.

there was upheaval

Implies a significant and sudden change or disruption.

there was ferment

Suggests a state of excitement and unrest, often leading to change.

there was strife

Emphasizes conflict and struggle within the situation.

there was trouble

A more general term indicating problems or difficulties.

FAQs

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

You can use "there was turmoil" to describe a state of confusion, disorder, or unrest in a situation. For example, "During the political crisis, "there was turmoil" in the streets as citizens protested against the government."

What are some alternatives to "there was turmoil"?

Alternatives include "there was chaos", "there was unrest", or "there was disorder", depending on the specific context you want to convey.

Is it better to say "there was turmoil" or "there was a turmoil"?

"There was turmoil" is generally preferred. "Turmoil" is typically used as an uncountable noun in this context, so the article "a" is unnecessary. You would only use "a turmoil" if referring to a specific instance or type of turmoil.

What's the difference between "there was turmoil" and "there was confusion"?

"Confusion" refers to a lack of understanding or clarity, while "turmoil" encompasses a broader sense of disorder, unrest, and chaotic activity. While confusion can contribute to turmoil, turmoil involves more than just a lack of understanding.