What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
mayhem
Example
The earthquake caused mayhem in the city, with buildings collapsing and people running for their lives. [mayhem: noun]
Example
The protesters caused mayhem in the streets, setting fire to cars and breaking windows. [mayhem: noun]
turmoil
Example
The company was in turmoil after the CEO resigned, with employees unsure about the future. [turmoil: noun]
Example
She felt a sense of turmoil after the breakup, struggling to come to terms with her emotions. [turmoil: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Turmoil is more commonly used than mayhem in everyday language. Turmoil is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while mayhem is less common and often associated with more extreme situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between mayhem and turmoil?
Both mayhem and turmoil are formal words that are typically used in serious or dramatic contexts, such as news reports or literature. However, mayhem is more associated with violent or criminal situations, while turmoil is more associated with emotional or mental states.
