troubles

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "troubles" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when talking about difficult or confusing situations, or to describe a period of sadness or hardship. Example sentence: "The past year has been full of troubles for his family, but they remain hopeful for the future."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

When the Labour leader said no, a lowing sound could be heard, the noise of an audience uniting in sceptical rejection of the man before them – a reminder that one of Miliband's greatest errors since 2010 was his failure to debunk the narrative that blames Labour profligacy for the country's fiscal troubles.

The Guardian

"During this depression, when the spirit of the people is lower than at any other time, it is a splendid thing that, for just 15 cents, an American can go to a movie and look at the smiling face of a baby and forget his troubles," Franklin D Roosevelt stated in 1935, referring to the world's biggest and littlest star.

The Guardian - Film

It commemorates the sectarian murder of my paternal grandfather's brother, who was beaten and stabbed to death by a loyalist mob very close by during the Troubles.

The Guardian

In an interview (in Arabic) with Asharq al-Awsat newspaper while in London, Hadi lamented Yemen's past troubles, saying: "We have spent 50 years in Yemen operating on a kill or be killed basis... we've had continuing wars and unending disputes, Yemenis must leave this past of wars and disputes behind".

The Guardian

While the Hungarians hung out in Tata, the German side had their own train troubles.

The Guardian - Sport

Such control would be clumsy and expensive and involve a new shadow frontier with western Ukraine that could be a continued source of unwanted, as opposed to manipulated, troubles.

The Guardian - Opinion

The republican party now talks the inclusive language the SDLP spouted for decades through the Troubles regarding unionists.

The Guardian

But this was just the start of their troubles.

The Guardian - Money

The councillor is making his rounds, quietly soliciting from his neighbours their troubles and concerns.

The Guardian

The DUP's HQ looks as well guarded as many military compounds, the murals dating from the Troubles still decorate most street corners and the offices of the Ulster Volunteer Force are still well maintained.

The Guardian

Take his views on the financial troubles of Partick Thistle.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to specific historical conflicts, such as in Northern Ireland, capitalize "Troubles" to denote its unique significance.

Common error

While "troubles" is versatile, in very informal settings, simpler words like "problems" or "issues" might sound more natural. Consider your audience and the context when choosing the most appropriate term.

Linguistic Context

The word "troubles" primarily functions as a plural noun, referring to multiple problems or difficulties. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and usable. It can also denote a specific period of conflict, such as the Troubles in Northern Ireland.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Formal & Business

18%

Science

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the term "troubles" is grammatically sound and widely used, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Predominantly a plural noun, it signifies various difficulties or a period of unrest. While versatile, the register varies with context, generally remaining neutral. It's most frequently encountered in news and media, as well as formal business settings. When referring to the Northern Ireland conflict, remember to capitalize it. When expressing similar meanings, alternatives such as "difficulties" or "hardships" offer subtle nuances depending on the intended emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

difficulties

A more general term for problems and challenges.

problems

A common and direct synonym for issues and difficulties.

hardships

Highlights the severe difficulties and suffering experienced.

difficult times

Focuses on the temporal aspect of difficulty, emphasizing a period of hardship.

adversities

Focuses on unfavorable conditions and misfortunes.

tribulations

Emphasizes trials and suffering, often with a religious or philosophical connotation.

miseries

Focuses on the state of suffering and unhappiness.

setbacks

Highlights delays and impediments in progress.

complications

Highlights the intricate and complex nature of the difficulties.

predicaments

Emphasizes difficult or dangerous situations.

FAQs

How do I use "troubles" in a sentence?

The word "troubles" can be used to refer to general difficulties or specific periods of conflict. For example, "The country faced many economic troubles" or "The Troubles in Northern Ireland lasted for decades".

What can I say instead of "troubles"?

You can use alternatives like "difficulties", "problems", or "hardships" depending on the context.

When should I capitalize "Troubles"?

Capitalize "Troubles" when referring to the specific period of conflict in Northern Ireland. Otherwise, use lowercase for general difficulties.

What is the difference between "trouble" and "troubles"?

"Trouble" is generally used as a singular noun referring to a difficulty or problem. "Troubles" is the plural form, referring to multiple difficulties or a period marked by conflict and unrest.