troublemakers

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "troublemakers" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to individuals or groups who cause problems or disruptions, often in a mischievous or rebellious manner. Example: "The school principal addressed the issue of troublemakers in the classroom, emphasizing the need for better behavior."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Zig and Zag The Big Breakfast's resident troublemakers are the unsung hero of fashion's faux fur moment.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Hundreds of potential troublemakers have been stopped long before they even begin to contemplate actually perpetrating a violent attack.

The Guardian

Fears of a panic after the European elections are receding: even the most resolute troublemakers seem ready to rally around.

The Guardian

Mr Sarkozy favours a zero-tolerance approach to urban violence, and in the days before the unrest began he angered many by calling troublemakers in poor districts "dregs".

The Economist

Lau Nai-keung, a Hong Kong member of China's National People's Congress, adds that because of Macau's reliance on tourism, its low tolerance for troublemakers is understandable.In this section Sharif wins a battle No politics, please City of dreams Golden days Myanmar's overflow The Sludge Coast ReprintsOne reason for Macau's jitters about any hint of unrest may be economic.

The Economist

"Jail is ten times worse than school," he warns young troublemakers.

The Economist

Given the Kremlin's overwhelming domestic support and the ease with which it gets what it wants from the outside world, it is tempting to hope that it might start taking things a bit easier.Two new troubling tactics against troublemakers are the abuse of psychiatric incarceration most recently against an opposition leader in Mari El; and the use of the draft against men of conscription age.

The Economist

Worse, it has made the world's only available policeman look weak, which encourages other troublemakers, and has undermined the cause of international engagement in both America and Europe.

The Economist

In the centre of the country, people of the two faiths live side-by-side, and there are big minorities everywhere a scene providing ample tinder for troublemakers.

The Economist

Japan, concerned about vital shipping lanes in the region, might be only too willing to supply the patrol boats that Indonesia lacks to keep troublemakers out.

The Economist

For perceived "troublemakers" such as Mr Ai, the government says, "no law can protect them".Western observers tend to describe the crackdown as a massive overreaction to perceived threats, but it may well be that China's rulers know better.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "troublemakers", consider the specific context and the nature of the trouble being caused. Choose a synonym if a more precise description is needed.

Common error

Avoid using "troublemakers" in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more neutral or precise terms like "disruptors" or "non-compliant individuals" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "troublemakers" is as a plural noun. It typically acts as the subject or object of a sentence, referring to multiple individuals or entities causing problems or disruptions. Ludwig AI examples confirm this usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "troublemakers" is a common plural noun used to describe individuals or groups who cause disruption or problems. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically correct and most frequently found in News & Media contexts. While widely used, it is essential to consider the specific context and choose synonyms when a more precise or formal term is needed. Alternatives like "disruptors" or "agitators" may be more appropriate depending on the situation. Avoid overuse in formal writing and consider the specific nature of the trouble being caused to select the most accurate term.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

mischief makers

Emphasizes the playful or petty nature of the trouble caused, often implying a lack of serious intent.

rabble-rousers

Highlights the act of inciting public disorder or unrest, often with a political motive.

agitators

Focuses on those who stir up public interest and action, typically regarding controversial issues.

disruptors

Emphasizes the act of interrupting or disturbing the normal course of events.

malcontents

Refers to individuals who are chronically dissatisfied and prone to complaining or causing trouble.

rowdies

Highlights disorderly and noisy behavior, often in a public setting.

hoodlums

Implies involvement in petty crime and vandalism, often associated with youth gangs.

delinquents

Specifically refers to young people who commit crimes or misbehave.

offenders

A general term for those who violate rules or laws.

wrongdoers

A broad term for individuals who engage in unethical or illegal behavior.

FAQs

How can I use "troublemakers" in a sentence?

"Troublemakers" is a plural noun, so it should be used to describe multiple individuals or entities causing problems. For example: "The police identified the main troublemakers at the protest."

What's the difference between "troublemakers" and "dissidents"?

"Troublemakers" generally refers to individuals causing disruption or problems, while "dissidents" specifically refers to those who oppose official policy, often with political motivations.

What can I say instead of "troublemakers"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "disruptors", "mischief makers", or "agitators".

Is "troublemakers" a formal word?

While "troublemakers" is widely understood, it's generally considered informal. In formal contexts, consider more neutral terms like "disruptive elements" or "non-compliant individuals".