# turmoil

/ˈtɝˌmɔɪɫ/ (US) · /tˈɜːmɔɪl/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/turmoil
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

a state of great confusion, excitement, or trouble. You use this when everything feels messy and out of control.

For teachers: a state of extreme confusion, agitation, or disturbance. Often describes political, social, or emotional instability.

## Examples

- The country was in political turmoil after the election.
- The sudden departure of the CEO left the company's leadership in turmoil for several months.
- Despite the internal turmoil caused by the scandal, the organization managed to maintain its public image through a series of carefully managed press releases.

## Usage notes

- Commonly follows the preposition 'in' to describe a state of being.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.