troubled
- 01 B1 Intermediate
feeling worried, unhappy, or full of stress.
characterised by mental or emotional distress; exhibiting signs of worry or anxiety.
Simple“He had a troubled look on his face after reading the letter.”
In context“The therapist noted her troubled expression, which suggested that the recent events had taken a significant toll on her mental well-being.”
- 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
having a lot of problems, difficulties, or violence.
beset by problems, conflict, or social and political unrest.
Simple“The company has a troubled history of losing money and changing bosses.”
In context“The diplomat spent years working in the troubled region, attempting to mediate between factions that had been at war for decades.”
SynonymsAntonyms
“For his follow-up, Newlands, himself billed as a “neurodivergent writer”, focuses on a troubled young man.”
“I've got kids." Oscar Selby, who researches troubled High Streets at the Centre for Cities think tank, sees them as a "bellwether" for the wider economy.”