Tumult: meaning, definitions and examples

Tumult is used to describe a state of noisy confusion or disorder, often in a large crowd.

• The tumult in the stadium grew louder as the game progressed.
• The tumult of the marketplace could be heard from miles away.

Commotion is used when describing a situation where there's a lot of noise and activity, often caused by excitement or disturbance.

• She looked out the window to see what was causing the commotion in the street.
• There was a commotion in the office when they announced the policy changes.

Uproar is used when describing a situation where there is a loud and impassioned noise or commotion, often from a large group in response to something controversial or surprising.

• The politician's comments caused an uproar in the media.
• The crowd went into an uproar when the team scored the winning goal.

Chaos refers to a state of complete disorder and confusion, often implying a lack of control and predictability.

• The city was in chaos after the unexpected blackout.
• Chaos erupted in the classroom when the teacher left.

Turmoil describes a state of great disturbance, confusion, or uncertainty, often emotional or political.

• After the scandal, the company was in turmoil for months.
• His personal life was in turmoil following the breakup.

Use it for loud, chaotic noises and confusion, often associated with a crowd or mob. It conveys a sense of uproar.

• The crowd broke into a tumult when the band appeared on stage.
• The courtroom was in tumult as the verdict was announced.

This word is best used to describe a state of misunderstanding or lack of clarity, whether in a situation or in someone’s mind.

• There was confusion among students about the exam date.
• She looked at him with confusion, not understanding his instructions.

Opt for this word to describe a lack of order or organization, often used in a physical space or in a system. It can have a negative connotation.

• The office was in complete disorder after the move.
• His room was always in a state of disorder, with clothes scattered everywhere.

Appropriate for describing a state of extreme confusion or agitation, often emotional. It suggests great distress or complication.

• She felt inner turmoil about the difficult decision she had to make.
• The country was in political turmoil following the election.

Use in situations where there is a major change or disruption, often associated with social, political, or physical shifts.

• The industrial revolution caused significant social upheaval.
• The sudden resignation of the CEO led to an upheaval within the company.