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troublemaker
/ˈtɹʌbəlˌmeɪkəɹ/
person who causes problems
The teacher warned the troublemaker to stop disrupting the class.
The teacher warned the student causing problems to stop disrupting the class.
informal
A person who intentionally causes trouble or disruption.
He was labeled a troublemaker after he kept interrupting the meeting.
He was called a troublemaker because he repeatedly disrupted the meeting.
The school expelled the troublemaker for his repeated misbehavior.
The school expelled the student causing problems due to his constant misbehavior.
Often used in school or workplace contexts to describe someone who stirs up conflict or breaks rules.
Collocations
school troublemakera student who causes problems at schooloffice troublemakera coworker who disrupts the workplaceserial troublemakersomeone who repeatedly causes trouble
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Context Matters
The word 'troublemaker' implies intentional disruption. If someone causes trouble accidentally, consider using 'problem-causer' instead.
Gold Rule
Avoid Misuse
Do not use 'troublemaker' for someone who is merely unlucky or facing challenges. The term specifically refers to someone who creates problems.
Word Origin
From 'trouble' + 'maker', first recorded in the early 19th century. The compound form emerged as a direct description of someone who creates trouble.
Usage Notes
The term is neutral in tone but often carries a negative connotation, implying deliberate action. It is commonly used in educational and professional settings.
Word Breakdown
trouble
problems or difficulties
nounmaker
a person who creates or causes something
suffixEnglish Dictionary