What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
turbulence
Example
The plane experienced turbulence during the storm. [turbulence: noun]
Example
The political situation in the country is causing turbulence in the economy. [turbulence: noun]
disturbance
Example
The loud music from the party next door caused a disturbance in our apartment. [disturbance: noun]
Example
The news of the accident caused a disturbance in his emotional state. [disturbance: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Disturbance is more commonly used than turbulence in everyday language. Disturbance is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while turbulence is more specific and often used in technical or scientific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between turbulence and disturbance?
Both turbulence and disturbance can be used in formal and informal contexts, but turbulence may be more commonly used in technical or scientific writing, while disturbance is more commonly used in everyday language.