tumultuous relationship

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tumultuous relationship" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use the phrase to refer to a relationship that is often turbulent and unstable, such as a romantic relationship that is full of dramatic and intense arguments. For example, "Both John and Jane had a tumultuous relationship, often fighting and breaking up, only to get back together a few weeks later."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Describes their tumultuous relationship.

The New Yorker

They have a strange and tumultuous relationship.

The New Yorker

The police ledger suggested a tumultuous relationship.

The New York Times

That provided the makings of a tumultuous relationship.

The New Yorker

I was in a tumultuous relationship with the woman I was dating.

The New York Times

"I liked her tremendously and had been in a tumultuous relationship that ended about two months earlier," he said.

The New York Times

So far, I've had a tumultuous relationship with my schools, feeling both passionate and apathetic towards all of them.

The New York Times

In spite of their tumultuous relationship, Lane says his mother was always supportive of his career.

The New York Times - Magazine

Based on the life of the titular French sculptor and his tumultuous relationship with his mistress and muse, the new ballet marks the company's 35th anniversary.

The New York Times - Arts

While Ms. Lagarde's former boss, France's president, Nicolas Sarkozy, has had a tumultuous relationship with Mrs. Merkel, Ms. Lagarde has nurtured a close personal relationship with her.

The New York Times

Henriette started another salon, which attracted their old friend Oskar Kokoschka and Elias Canetti, the Bulgarian writer, with whom Ms. Motesiczky formed a lasting if tumultuous relationship.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a relationship, use "tumultuous relationship" to convey the intensity and volatility between the individuals involved. It suggests frequent arguments, emotional outbursts, and instability.

Common error

Avoid using "tumultuous relationship" to describe minor disagreements. This phrase is best suited for situations involving significant emotional upheaval and repeated conflict.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tumultuous relationship" functions as a noun phrase, where "tumultuous" modifies the noun "relationship". Ludwig's examples demonstrate its use in describing the nature or quality of a connection between individuals, entities, or concepts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "tumultuous relationship" effectively communicates a dynamic of conflict and emotional intensity between individuals or entities. As validated by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and commonly used. Its frequency in news and media showcases its broad applicability in describing complex interpersonal dynamics. The phrase finds its place in describing families and romantic partners. While versatile, remember that the phrase is best suited for situations with true emotional conflict and instability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

tempestuous relationship

Uses a more intense synonym for "tumultuous", suggesting high emotion.

turbulent relationship

Similar to "tumultuous", highlighting the chaotic and agitated nature.

stormy relationship

Replaces "tumultuous" with a synonym evoking a sense of turbulence.

troubled relationship

Uses a more general term to describe a relationship facing difficulties.

rocky relationship

Employs a metaphor to suggest a relationship with obstacles and instability.

unstable relationship

Focuses on the lack of steadiness and predictability in the relationship.

difficult relationship

A broader term indicating hardship and challenges within the relationship.

strained relationship

Highlights the tension and pressure present in the connection.

uneasy relationship

Indicates a lack of comfort and security within the connection.

fraught relationship

Emphasizes the anxiety and distress associated with the relationship.

FAQs

How can I use "tumultuous relationship" in a sentence?

You can use "tumultuous relationship" to describe a relationship marked by conflict, emotional disturbance, and instability. For example, "Their marriage was a "tumultuous relationship" characterized by frequent arguments and reconciliations".

What are some synonyms for "tumultuous relationship"?

Alternatives include "stormy relationship", "troubled relationship", "rocky relationship", or "turbulent relationship", each suggesting different nuances of instability and conflict.

What's the difference between "tumultuous relationship" and "difficult relationship"?

"Tumultuous relationship" implies a higher degree of turbulence, emotional intensity, and frequent conflicts, while "difficult relationship" is a more general term indicating challenges and struggles.

Is "tumultuous relationship" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "tumultuous relationship" is suitable for both formal and informal writing, depending on the context. It is frequently found in news articles and analyses, as shown by Ludwig, but consider the audience and purpose of your writing.