A loud, restless, and chaotic situation that is often caused by an excited crowd. A commotion is characterized by noise, pushing, and confusion.
example
Nach der umstrittenen Entscheidung des Schiedsrichters kam es auf den Rängen zu einem Tumult.
After the referee's controversial decision, there was a commotion in the stands.
Usage tips
Register and style
The word 'Tumult' (commotion) is mainly used in written language, for example in news reports, reports, or literary texts. It is rather rare in everyday colloquial speech.
EXAMPLE
Die Polizei musste eingreifen, um den Tumult vor dem Stadion aufzulösen.
The police had to intervene to break up the commotion in front of the stadium.
Typical collocations
A commotion is often described with verbs that express its beginning. Typical formulations are 'es kommt zu einem Tumult' (a commotion occurs) or 'ein Tumult bricht aus' (a commotion breaks out).
EXAMPLE
Als das Ergebnis bekannt gegeben wurde, brach im Publikum ein Tumult aus.
When the result was announced, a commotion broke out in the audience.
Sentence structure with "zu"
A very common construction is 'zu einem Tumult kommen' (for a commotion to occur). In this construction, 'Tumult' is in the dative. This phrase describes that a commotion arises as the result of an event.
EXAMPLE
Wegen einer falschen Information kam es am Bahnhof zu einem Tumult.
Because of false information, there was a commotion at the train station.
Compare with
antonym
Tumult vs Ordnung
order
'die Ordnung' and 'der Tumult' are clear opposites when talking about situations involving people. 'Ordnung' means that rules and procedures are clear and everything functions calmly. 'Tumult' describes a loud, restless, and chaotic situation, often with many excited people. So 'Ordnung' fits with control and clarity, while 'Tumult' fits with noise, crowding, and confusion.
Tumult
Vor dem Stadion entstand ein Tumult, als die Türen zu spät geöffnet wurden.
A commotion broke out in front of the stadium when the doors were opened late.
Ordnung
Die Polizei sorgte nach dem Konzert schnell wieder für Ordnung.
After the concert, the police quickly restored order.