troubles - Master This Word
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troubles Word Meanings
- a problem or difficulty
- distress or worry
- to cause problems or distress
troubles Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
troubles Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈtrʌb.əl/
US
/ˈtrʌb.əl/
troubles Word Etymology
trouble = 'to disturb' (throublen in Old English), from Latin 'turbulare' meaning 'to stir'. Imagine a calm lake disturbed by a rock thrown in, creating ripples and chaos.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I reach for the door handle and turn it, but it sticks and I have to push a little harder. I shift my weight, adjust my stance, and the stubborn latch sighs but nothing opens. The effort feels like a tiny trouble building inside, a pull between patience and irritation. I set the goal aside for a moment, keep breathing, and try a different angle, hoping the noise will fade into progress.
Real Context
Trouble is a flexible English word that can name a problem or difficulty, or describe distress and worry. It also functions as a verb meaning to cause problems or distress for someone. In everyday speech we talk about being 'in trouble' or you 'get into trouble' when rules are broken or when a situation becomes tricky, and we say someone 'troubles' you if they worry you or cause annoyance. The etymology traces back to Old English throublen, from Latin turbulare meaning 'to stir', conveying the image of a calm lake disturbed by a rock creating ripples and chaos. Learners often mix up phrases like 'trouble with' and 'trouble-free' in casual use.
Usage Reminders
- - Trouble can be a noun or a verb.
- - Use 'in trouble' or 'get into trouble' for problems or rule-breaking.
- - Use 'trouble with' to describe a problem related to something.
- - 'To trouble someone' means to cause them worry or bother.
- - In formal writing, prefer 'problem' or 'difficulty' for neutral statements.
Common Misconceptions
- Trouble does not only mean a major problem; it can be a minor issue or worry.
- Being 'in trouble' usually refers to rules or safety, not just a bad mood.
- Do not assume 'trouble' always pairs with 'with' in every context.
- Avoid translating 'trouble' literally as a single equivalent in all languages.
- Careful with the verb form: 'to trouble someone' is not the same as 'to trouble someone about' in many contexts.
Thinking Differences
For English learners, trouble is a broad term governed by collocations like in trouble, get into trouble, and trouble with. Learners often assume all situations with difficulty fit the same phrase and may mix up cause vs receive implication.
Learning Tips
- Practice common collocations daily to build instinct
- Distinguish between in trouble, get into trouble, and trouble with
- Memorize verbs: trouble someone = cause worry or bother
- Compare with neutral synonyms like problem or difficulty
- Notice subtle emotional tone: trouble often implies consequences
- Use authentic examples in spoken language
Related Listening
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