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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

Forms and spellings

2 forms open this card.

Main spelling

  • troublemakernoun

Forms

  • troublemakerspluralnoun