troubled time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "troubled time" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a period characterized by difficulties, challenges, or unrest. Example: "During these troubled times, many people are seeking support and guidance to navigate their challenges."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

In 1975, Mrs. Lederer underwent what she would call her "only troubled time" when her husband left her for another woman.

The New York Times

The Middlesbrough striker was substituted at half-time during the narrow win over Liechtenstein and has endured a similarly troubled time at club level this season.

The Guardian - Sport

Marilia says that at an earlier, troubled time in their lives, she and her son could only come out at night.

The Guardian - Film

At the same time, some Catholics portray him as an absentee shepherd during the church's most deeply troubled time in generations.

The New York Times

Nice kids in a troubled time.

The New York Times

This was a troubled time in Ireland.

The Guardian - Sport

"Obviously, it's a troubled time for the region," he said.

The New York Times

That was a troubled time for the Olympic movement.

The New York Times - Sports

He took over at a troubled time for the museum and its parent, the Getty Trust.

The New York Times - Arts

It's certainly a song of hope and defiance for our troubled time.

The Guardian - Music

In a troubled time, they kept the vital impulse of humanism alive.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "troubled time" to add emotional depth, evoking a sense of shared hardship or past challenges.

Common error

Avoid using "troubled time" as a generic descriptor without specifying the nature of the troubles. Overuse can dilute its impact and make your writing seem vague. Provide specific details to enhance the phrase's relevance and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "troubled time" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. It characterizes a period marked by difficulty, hardship, or instability. As confirmed by Ludwig, this phrase is correctly used across many examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

90%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "troubled time" is a versatile noun phrase used to describe periods marked by difficulty, unrest, or instability. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across reputable sources, particularly in news and media. While alternatives like "difficult period" or "challenging times" exist, "troubled time" often implies a broader sense of societal or widespread issues. To maximize impact, be specific about the nature of the troubles when using the phrase. Avoid overuse without clear context to maintain its effectiveness. This phrase adds emotional depth and historical context to writing, making it a valuable tool for writers.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

difficult period

Focuses on the challenging nature of the time.

challenging times

Emphasizes the presence of obstacles and tests during the time.

hard times

Highlights the general adversity and hardship.

period of adversity

Stresses the unfavorable circumstances and misfortune.

time of crisis

Indicates a critical and unstable situation.

era of turmoil

Suggests widespread disruption and chaos.

unsettled period

Focuses on the lack of stability and predictability.

precarious moment

Emphasizes the risk and uncertainty of the situation.

tumultuous phase

Highlights the turbulence and commotion involved.

time of upheaval

Indicates significant disruption and radical change.

FAQs

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

You can use "troubled time" to describe a period marked by difficulties, challenges, or unrest. For example, "The company faced significant losses during a "troubled time" for the economy."

What are some alternatives to "troubled time"?

You can use alternatives such as "difficult period", "challenging times", or "time of crisis" depending on the specific context.

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

Yes, "troubled time" is suitable for formal writing, particularly when discussing historical events, economic downturns, or organizational challenges. However, ensure that the tone and context align with the overall formality of the document.

What makes "troubled time" different from "difficult time"?

While both phrases denote hardship, "troubled time" often implies a broader sense of unrest or instability, whereas "difficult time" may simply refer to personal or specific challenges.