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troublemaker

C2
noun

Pronunciation

UK

  • /trˈʌbəlmˌeɪkə/

US

  • /ˈtrəbəlˌmeɪkər/

Description

A troublemaker is someone who tends to cause problems, stir things up, or make life harder for other people. Sometimes the word is used in a light, playful way, like for a child who keeps playing pranks or a puppy that chews everything in sight. Other times, it has a more negative meaning and describes a person who keeps disrupting a group, breaking rules, or starting conflict. Context matters. You might smile and call your little brother a troublemaker after he hides your shoes, but the word can also describe someone who keeps creating tension at school, at work, or in a community.

Examples

  1. 1

    Classroom behavior

    The teacher kept an eye on Ben because he was a troublemaker in class.

  2. 2

    Family teasing

    My younger brother is a little troublemaker, but he can be very funny too.

  3. 3

    Event security

    The security guards asked the troublemakers to leave after the concert.

  4. 4

    Workplace reputation

    She has a reputation as a troublemaker, so some people avoid working with her.

    • Pattern

      have a reputation as + role/type

      be known by many people as that

  5. 5

    Unfair label

    He only complained about the unsafe equipment, but the boss treated him like a troublemaker.

    • Pattern

      treat someone like a troublemaker

      act as if they are causing problems, even if they are not

See also

nouna person who causes problems, conflict, or disorder

Similar

Shades of meaning

Contrast

Used with (collocations)

  • known troublemaker
  • branded a troublemaker
  • a real troublemaker

Word family

  • troublemaking

Explore

  • disruption
  • conflict

Forms and spellings

2 forms open this card.

Main spelling

  • troublemakernoun

Forms

  • troublemakerspluralnoun