Turmoil

Welcome to the Voice of America’s News Words.

This word is one you hear in stories about troubled places.

The story is about a man who protested the lack of freedom in his homeland, Myanmar.

Turmoil.

For Myanmar, the coming year will test whether critics like Gambia have reason for pessimism, or whether authorities can conduct a free and fair election without turmoil in the streets.

The word turmoil means something is mixed up, and lacks order.

If there is turmoil in the streets, it means there could be protesters and violence, and police cannot control the crowds.

Now, when you hear the word turmoil, your American English will be good enough to know what this News Word means.