Troublemaker: meaning, definitions and examples

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troublemaker

[ˈtrʌb(ə)lˌmeɪkər ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

someone who causes problems or difficulties

A troublemaker is a person who habitually causes difficulty or problems for others, especially by stirring up discontent or discord. They may deliberately provoke arguments, spread rumors, or disrupt the peace.

Synonyms

agitator, instigator, rabble-rouser.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
troublemaker	This word is commonly used to describe someone who causes problems or disruptions, usually in a general sense. It is suitable for informal settings where the person is not necessarily inciting others but causing issues. Tom is such a troublemaker; he always finds a way to stir things up. The teacher had to talk to the troublemaker in the class about his behavior.
instigator	Use this word to refer to someone who initiates or provokes something, especially trouble or a quarrel. It carries a negative tone and implies a starting role in disturbances. As the instigator of the prank, Mike was held responsible for the chaos that ensued. The police identified the instigator of the fight and took him into custody.
agitator	This term fits when someone actively tries to incite others to protest or rebel, often used in political or social contexts. It has a somewhat negative connotation and implies intentional disturbance. The factory workers saw him as an agitator, always encouraging them to go on strike. She was labeled an agitator for her efforts to organize the community against the new policy.
rabble-rouser	This term is appropriate for someone who deliberately stirs up emotions, often among large groups, causing trouble or unrest. It has a clearly negative connotation and is typically used in political or social discussions. The politician was accused of being a rabble-rouser, inciting the crowd with inflammatory speeches. A noted rabble-rouser, he attended every protest to fuel the discontent among the people.

Examples of usage

Watch out for that troublemaker, they always seem to be starting trouble.
The troublemaker in the group was eventually asked to leave.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

someone who frequently gets into trouble

A troublemaker can also refer to someone who frequently gets into trouble, either at school, work, or in their personal life. They may engage in risky or disruptive behavior that leads to negative consequences.

Synonyms

delinquent, mischief-maker, rebel.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
troublemaker	This word is often used to describe someone who causes problems or disruptions, generally in a social or group setting. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts, and it doesn't necessarily imply criminal behavior. The new student turned out to be quite the troublemaker, always stirring up arguments. The project was delayed because of a troublemaker in the team.
delinquent	This term is commonly used to describe a young person who has committed minor crimes or is involved in anti-social behaviors. It often carries a negative connotation and is typically used in legal or educational contexts. The school counselor has been working with the delinquent to improve his behavior. Juvenile delinquents often require more structured environments to thrive.
mischief-maker	This word is usually employed to describe someone who engages in playful or harmless trouble. It often has a lighter, more humorous tone compared to 'troublemaker'. My younger brother is a real mischief-maker, always hiding my things for fun. During class, the mischief-maker glued the teacher’s chalk to the board as a prank.
rebel	Use this word to describe someone who opposes or defies authority or norms. It can be used in a wide variety of situations, from political contexts to personal attitudes, and may carry either a positive (standing up for one's beliefs) or negative (disruptive) connotation. As a teenager, she was a rebel who always challenged school rules. The political rebel led a movement to change the country's government.

Examples of usage

The principal called the student a troublemaker for constantly breaking the rules.
He has a reputation as a troublemaker because of his history of conflicts.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'trouble' comes from the Old French term 'troubler', meaning to disturb.
The suffix 'maker' indicates a person who creates or causes something, highlighting that troublemakers intentionally cause issues.

Pop Culture

Many famous characters in movies and books, like the mischievous Peter Pan, are seen as troublemakers, highlighting their adventurous and rebellious spirit.
In music, the term is often used in song titles, reflecting themes of rebellion or social commentary, such as in 'Trouble Maker' by Taeyang.

Psychology

Troublemakers may often seek attention or validation, indicating an underlying need for social interaction.
From a psychological perspective, some behavioral scientists explore how being labeled a troublemaker impacts a person's identity and self-esteem.

Education

In a classroom, troublemakers often challenge authority and can upset the learning environment, yet they also encourage teachers to develop better classroom management skills.
Some educators argue that labeling students as troublemakers can be detrimental, overlooking their potential for creativity and leadership.

Sociology

In various communities, troublemakers can be seen as agents of change, as they often confront social norms and provoke discussion.
The societal reaction to troublemakers varies widely, with some cultures embracing their role in questioning authority, while others discourage disruptive behavior.

Translations

Translations of the word "troublemaker" in other languages:

🇵🇹 encrenqueiro

🇮🇳 मुसीबत पैदा करने वाला (mushibat paida karne wala)

🇩🇪 Unruhestifter

🇮🇩 pembuat masalah

🇺🇦 порушник спокою

🇵🇱 zadymiarz

🇯🇵 トラブルメーカー (toraburu mēkā)

🇫🇷 fauteur de troubles

🇪🇸 problemático

🇹🇷 sorun yaratan

🇰🇷 문제아 (munjea)

🇸🇦 مثير المشاكل (muthir al-mashaakil)

🇨🇿 rušitel klidu

🇸🇰 rušiteľ pokoja

🇨🇳 惹麻烦的人 (rě máfan de rén)

🇸🇮 težavnež

🇮🇸 vandræðamaður

🇰🇿 проблема тудыратын адам (problema tudıratın adam)

🇬🇪 პრობლემის შემქმნელი (problemis shemk'mneli)

🇦🇿 problem yaradan

🇲🇽 problemático