Noun
/turbuˈlencia/
The word "turbulencia" refers to a state of disturbance, agitation, or disorder in various contexts. This can include physical phenomena like turbulence in air or water, as well as metaphorical contexts such as social unrest or emotional upheaval. In Spanish, the term is commonly used in both oral and written forms, particularly in scientific, aviation, and legal discussions.
"Turbulencia" is frequently used in specialized contexts, particularly in aviation (to describe atmospheric conditions) and in science (such as fluid dynamics). It is less common in everyday conversation unless discussing relevant topics.
La turbulencia durante el vuelo hizo que muchos pasajeros se sintieran incómodos.
The turbulence during the flight made many passengers feel uncomfortable.
La turbulencia en los mercados financieros causó una gran preocupación entre los inversionistas.
The turbulence in the financial markets caused great concern among investors.
La película explora la turbulencia emocional que siente el protagonista.
The movie explores the emotional turbulence experienced by the protagonist.
While "turbulencia" itself is not commonly found in idiomatic expressions, it can relate to phrases that convey agitation or unrest. Some expressions that might be relevant include:
Navegar en aguas turbulentas
To navigate in turbulent waters
This expression refers to dealing with difficult or unstable situations.
El equipo tuvo que navegar en aguas turbulentas tras el escándalo público.
(The team had to navigate in turbulent waters after the public scandal.)
Estar en una montaña rusa de emociones (to be on an emotional rollercoaster)
In this context, "turbulencia" is analogous to emotional instability.
Desde que recibió la noticia, su vida ha sido una montaña rusa de emociones.
(Since receiving the news, his life has been an emotional rollercoaster.)
Crisis de turbulencias
This phrase implies a crisis marked by agitation or upheaval.
La política del país ha estado en crisis de turbulencias durante meses.
(The country's politics has been in a state of turbulence for months.)
The term "turbulencia" derives from the Latin word "turbulentia," which comes from "turbulentus," meaning "agitated" or "disordered." The root "turba" in Latin means "disturbance" or "crowd," signifying disorder and agitation.