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turbulent
Characterized by unrest, hectic activity, and confusion; very lively and stormy.
example
Es war eine turbulente Sitzung mit vielen hitzigen Diskussionen.
It was a turbulent meeting with many heated discussions.
turbulent
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
The adjective 'turbulent' belongs to the word family of 'die Turbulenz' (turbulence). Both words describe a state of strong, irregular movement or unrest.
EXAMPLE
Der Pilot warnte die Passagiere vor erwarteten Turbulenzen.
The pilot warned the passengers about expected turbulence.
Typical collocations
In its figurative meaning, 'turbulent' often describes periods of time or events. Common combinations are 'turbulente Zeiten' (turbulent times), 'ein turbulentes Leben' (a turbulent life), or 'eine turbulente Beziehung' (a turbulent relationship).
EXAMPLE
Die Band blickt auf eine turbulente Karriere mit vielen Höhen und Tiefen zurück.
The band looks back on a turbulent career with many ups and downs.
Context clue: technical language
You can recognize the physical meaning from the context. When 'turbulent' is used together with words like 'Luft' (air), 'Strömung' (flow/current), 'Wasser' (water), or 'Flug' (flight), the scientific meaning is intended.
EXAMPLE
Das Wasser im Bach wurde nach dem starken Regen sehr turbulent.
The water in the stream became very turbulent after the heavy rain.
Compare with
turbulent vs ruhig
quiet / calm
'ruhig' and 'turbulent' describe opposite states. 'ruhig' fits when there is little noise, little movement, or little inner excitement. 'turbulent' fits when a lot is happening, things are hectic, or everything seems chaotic. You can use both words for situations, days, or moods. A 'ruhiger Tag' (quiet day) passes without stress; a 'turbulenter Tag' (turbulent day) is full of events and unrest.
turbulent
Der erste Tag im neuen Job war turbulent, weil ständig jemand etwas von mir wollte.
The first day at the new job was turbulent because someone constantly wanted something from me.
ruhig
Am Wochenende ist die Straße vor unserem Haus meistens ruhig.
On weekends, the street in front of our house is usually quiet.
In real life
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