troubled soul

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "troubled soul" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is experiencing emotional or psychological distress. Example: "After the loss of her loved one, she felt like a troubled soul wandering through life without direction."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Though some said that Powell was already a troubled soul, whatever his troubles were grew instantly and irreparably worse.

The New Yorker

/ They say you got a troubled soul.

The New Yorker

"Is oral sex acceptable?" asks a troubled soul.

The Economist

This empty bed contains Van Gogh's troubled soul.

The Guardian - Arts

He was a complex character, a troubled soul.

The Guardian - Music

"May God rest her troubled soul," reads the inscription.

The New York Times

She was a great singer, a troubled soul, a local girl, a substance abuser.

The New York Times

David Friedlander, as Michael, also ably embodies a character whose calm surface hides a troubled soul.

The New York Times

But he was a troubled soul, with a keen intellect and a fantastical imagination.

The New York Times

Following that life, he crawled back to the monastic life, seeking succour for his troubled soul.

The Guardian - Books

But I think I have the sparkle now, and he looks like a troubled soul".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "troubled soul" to compassionately describe a character's inner conflict or emotional distress in literature or creative writing. Ensure the context supports the depth of emotion implied by the phrase.

Common error

Avoid using "troubled soul" in contexts that are not serious or emotionally weighty. The phrase carries a significant emotional charge and can sound melodramatic if used inappropriately.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "troubled soul" primarily functions as a noun phrase used to describe a person experiencing significant emotional or psychological distress. As shown by Ludwig, it's often employed in literature and media to convey a character's inner turmoil.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Wiki

1%

Travel

1%

Less common in

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "troubled soul" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to describe someone experiencing emotional or psychological distress. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability and common usage across various contexts, particularly in news and media. When using this phrase, consider its serious emotional weight and ensure it aligns with the overall tone of your writing. Alternatives such as "tormented soul" or "distressed spirit" can provide nuanced variations, while overuse in lighthearted contexts should be avoided. "Troubled soul" appears most frequently in News & Media.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

tormented soul

Emphasizes intense mental or emotional suffering.

distressed spirit

Focuses on the spiritual aspect of the person's suffering.

anguished heart

Highlights the deep emotional pain experienced.

restless spirit

Suggests a lack of inner peace and constant unease.

distraught mind

Focuses on mental distress and agitation.

beleaguered spirit

Implies being under pressure or attack, causing inner turmoil.

unquiet soul

Suggests a lack of tranquility and inner peace.

afflicted spirit

Emphasizes suffering from hardship or illness.

tumultuous mind

Focuses on the chaotic and turbulent nature of the person's thoughts.

agitated soul

Highlights a state of restlessness and nervous excitement.

FAQs

How can I use "troubled soul" in a sentence?

You can use "troubled soul" to describe someone experiencing significant emotional or psychological distress. For example: "The artist was often described as a "troubled soul", channeling his pain into his art".

What are some alternatives to "troubled soul"?

Alternatives include "tormented soul", "distressed spirit", or "anguished heart", each offering a slightly different nuance of emotional distress.

Is it appropriate to use "troubled soul" in formal writing?

Yes, "troubled soul" can be used in formal writing, especially when discussing literature, psychology, or biographies where emotional depth is relevant. However, consider the tone and audience to ensure it fits appropriately.

What distinguishes "troubled soul" from "sad person"?

"Troubled soul" implies a deeper, more profound sense of inner turmoil and conflict than simply being a "sad person". It suggests ongoing psychological or emotional distress rather than a temporary state of sadness.