turmoil
What does "turmoil" mean?
Turmoil describes a state of great disturbance, confusion, or uncertainty. Imagine a stormy sea where the waves are crashing violently in every direction, or a crowded marketplace where everyone is shouting and pushing at once; this sense of chaotic motion and lack of order is exactly what turmoil represents. It is most commonly used to describe internal emotional states or large-scale societal instability. You will often hear it paired with words like "political," "emotional," or "inner," and it carries a serious, almost dramatic tone, making it less suitable for minor inconveniences and better for significant crises.
"turmoil" in conversation
Discussing a job transition
Are you still planning to leave the company next month?
Are you still planning to leave the company next month?
Honestly, the company is in such turmoil right now that I’m not sure if anyone knows who is in charge.
Honestly, the company is in such turmoil right now that I’m not sure if anyone knows who is in charge.
Used here to describe organizational chaos.
Checking on a friend
You've been so quiet lately, is everything okay?
You've been so quiet lately, is everything okay?
I've just been in a bit of emotional turmoil since the move, but I'm slowly getting there.
I've just been in a bit of emotional turmoil since the move, but I'm slowly getting there.
Used here to describe an internal, personal struggle.
"turmoil" in a sentence
The country was in a state of political turmoil.
The country was in a state of political turmoil.
She felt a sense of inner turmoil as she weighed her difficult options.
She felt a sense of inner turmoil as she weighed her difficult options.
The market remained in turmoil following the unexpected resignation of the CEO.
The market remained in turmoil following the unexpected resignation of the CEO.
