turbulent - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
turbulent Word Meanings
- characterized by conflict or disorder
- wild and unsteady
- having frequent changes or disturbances
turbulent Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
turbulent Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈtɜːbjʊlənt/
US
/ˈtɜrbjələnt/
turbulent Word Etymology
turbu- = to disturb + lent = characteristic of. Origin: Latin 'turbulentus' → Old French 'turbulent' → English. Picture a stormy sea with crashing waves, representing chaos and unrest.
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 InputReal Context
turbulent is an adjective describing a state of conflict or disorder, or something wild and unsteady, with frequent changes or disturbances. It emphasizes ongoing movement and instability rather than a single setback. You can talk about turbulent times, a turbulent sea, or a turbulent political climate, where external forces or emotions drive continual disruption. The word carries a strong sense of dynamic upheaval, often implying both external pressures and internal reactions. Etymology traces to Latin turbulentus, through Old French turbulent, entering English with connotations of disturbance. In use, it contrasts with calm or stable conditions and pairs well with nouns that denote flow or order being interrupted.
Usage Reminders
- - Use turbulent for ongoing instability, not a single setback.
- - Pair with nouns like turbulent waters, turbulent times, or a turbulent market.
- - Remember the noun form turbulence for the general instability, not the adjective.
- - Distinguish from calm or stable: turbulence implies disruption.
- - Common collocations include turbulent sea, turbulent atmosphere, and turbulent politics.
Common Misconceptions
- It only describes weather or seas, not other situations
- It means just a brief moment of trouble
- Turbulent and tumultuous are interchangeable
- It is weaker than 'unstable' in intensity
- Turbulent always refers to people being chaotic
Thinking Differences
In English, turbulent carries a strong sense of ongoing disruption tied to external forces or dynamics; it often appears in news, weather, and social contexts. Learners may misread it as a one-off problem or confuse it with merely unstable, which lacks the emphasis on continuous agitation.
Learning Tips
- Read and underline collocations: turbulent waters, turbulent times, turbulent market.
- Compare with unstable and tumultuous to notice nuances.
- Note the noun turbulence to talk about general instability.
- Use in formal writing to describe ongoing disruption.
- Pair with verbs that imply movement or change (remain, become, experience).
- Practice with weather, politics, and emotions to cover range.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'turbulent'?
A.Chaotic
B.Calm
C.Bright
D.Slow
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'turbulent' used correctly?
A.He enjoyed the turbulent ocean waves.
B.She had a peaceful and turbulent day.
C.The sky was clear and turbulent.
D.The water was still and turbulent.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'turbulent'?
A.Tranquil
B.Calm
C.Serene
D.Riotous
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'turbulent'?
A.Calm
B.Stable
C.Quiet
D.Smooth
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you use the word 'turbulent'?
A.Describing a stormy relationship
B.Talking about a peaceful lake
C.Discussing a harmonious music concert
D.Explaining a sunny weather forecast
Related Listening
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