troubles

word · lemma: trouble

/ˈtɹəbəɫz/
TRUH-buhlz
/tɹˈʌbəlz/
TRUH-buhlz

Definition

Problems, difficulties, or situations that cause worry, stress, or inconvenience. It is the plural form of 'trouble' and is often used for personal, financial, health, or technical problems.

Usage & Nuances

Common in everyday English. 'Trouble' is often uncountable ('I have trouble sleeping'), but 'troubles' is used for several separate problems or in fixed uses like 'car troubles' or 'financial troubles'. 'In trouble' means in a difficult situation or likely to be punished, which is different from plural 'troubles'.

Example Sentences

She has many troubles at work this month.

basic

He told me about his money troubles.

basic

After a rough year, she finally seems to be leaving her troubles behind.

natural

If you ask me, most of his troubles come from not planning ahead.

natural

We all have our own troubles, so try not to judge too quickly.

natural

Our car troubles started last winter.

basic