turbulent
/ˈtɜːbjələnt/ (bre, ipa) · /ˈtɜːrbjələnt/ (ame, ipa) · /ˈtər-byə-lənt/ (ame, mw)
turbulent — adjective
- turbulentpositive
- more turbulentcomparative
- most turbulentsuperlative
1. used to describe a situation, relationship, or period of time that is full of co
used to describe a situation, relationship, or period of time that is full of conflict, confusion, or unpredictable change — for example, a country undergoing a revolution, or a marriage strained by repeated arguments.
The country endured a turbulent decade marked by civil war and economic collapse.
turbulent + time period (decade, year, era)
After a turbulent year in the stock market, many investors moved their money to safer assets.
turbulent year for describing financial instability
Their relationship had been turbulent for years, with frequent arguments and long silences.
The mayor faced a turbulent town hall meeting as residents shouted their demands for change.
- chaotic
focuses on complete disorder rather than violence or conflict
- stormy
more figurative, often for relationships or meetings; less severe than turbulent
- unsettled
suggests ongoing instability without the intensity of conflict or violence
- tumultuous
very close in meaning but slightly more literary; emphasises noise and excitement
文法句型
turbulent + noun (times, period, relationship, history)
noun + be/become + turbulent
用法筆記
Typically describes external events, relationships, or social conditions rather than internal emotional states of individuals.
2. used to describe air, water, or another fluid that is moving in a strong, irregu
used to describe air, water, or another fluid that is moving in a strong, irregular, and unpredictable way — for example, ocean waves crashing violently against the shore, or air currents that make a plane shake.
The pilot announced that passengers should remain seated because of turbulent air ahead.
turbulent air — aviation context
The fishing boat struggled to stay afloat in the turbulent waters off the coast.
Kayakers are advised to avoid this river after heavy rain, when the currents become turbulent.
The plane shook violently after hitting a pocket of turbulent air above the mountains.
文法句型
turbulent + noun (air, waters, sea, river)
noun + be/become + turbulent
用法筆記
Commonly describes weather-related phenomena such as air currents, ocean waves, or river rapids. The noun form 'turbulence' is more frequent than the adjective in aviation contexts (e.g. 'we experienced some turbulence').