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troublesome

B2
adjective

Pronunciation

UK

  • /trˈʌbəlsˌʌm/

US

  • /ˈtrəbəlsəm/

Description

Something troublesome is not just hard; it causes problems and makes life more difficult. Think of a puppy chewing your favorite shoes, a math problem that keeps confusing you, or an engine that will not stop stalling. It can describe people, situations, or things. A troublesome neighbor might play loud music late at night. The word often suggests something that is both annoying and hard to deal with.

Examples

  1. 1

    Household problem

    We still have a troublesome leak under the kitchen sink.

  2. 2

    Health problem

    She's been dealing with a troublesome cough that keeps her awake at night.

  3. 3

    Classroom behavior

    The most troublesome students were asked to stay after class.

  4. 4

    Application process

    The visa application can be troublesome if you leave it until the last minute.

  5. 5

    Small business

    Rising insurance costs are especially troublesome for small businesses.

    • Pattern

      troublesome for + person/group

      causing problems for them

  6. 6

    Legal risk

    A small mistake in the contract could prove troublesome later.

    • Phrase

      prove troublesome

      turn out to cause problems

Forms and spellings

1 form open this card.

Main spelling

  • troublesomeadjective