mischief-maker
/'mistʃif,meikə/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: - A person who intentionally causes trouble or discord: Someone who deliberately creates problems, stirs up conflict, or incites others to argue or misbehave.
Usage
- The word "mischief-maker" is a compound noun used to describe a person whose actions are disruptive. It often implies that the person enjoys or takes pleasure in causing trouble.
- It is typically used in a disapproving or critical context.
Examples
- Noun:
- The teacher identified the new student as the primary mischief-maker in the class, always whispering and starting arguments.
- Office gossip can often be traced back to a single mischief-maker who spreads rumors.
Advanced Usage
- "To be a mischief-maker": This phrase is used to label someone's characteristic behavior.
- He has a reputation for being a mischief-maker, so his stories are often taken with a grain of salt.
Variants and Related Words
- Mischief (n): Playful misbehavior or troublemaking, especially in children. It can also refer to harm or trouble caused by someone.
- The children got into mischief while the parents were away.
- Mischievous (adj): Showing a fondness for causing trouble in a playful way; or intended to cause harm or trouble.
- She gave a mischievous grin before revealing the prank.
Synonyms
- Troublemaker: A person who habitually causes difficulties or problems.
- Instigator: A person who brings about or initiates something, typically something negative like a conflict.
- Agent provocateur: A person who secretly encourages or incites others to commit illegal acts so they can be prosecuted.
Related Phrases
- To stir up trouble: This is the action commonly associated with a mischief-maker.
- His sole purpose seemed to be to stir up trouble between the two departments.
Noun
- someone who deliberately stirs up trouble