A "tempestuous relationship" means a romantic or personal relationship that is marked by intense emotions, frequent arguments or conflicts, and unpredictable ups and downs. Full definition
President Trump has lashed out at various news outlets but has had a particularly tempestuous relationship with the Times. (fortune.com)
By Sean Ryan Stiffer penalties are threatening an already tempestuous relationship between builders and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. (dailyreporter.com)
The Case Against: — On settling down after decades of tempestuous relationships, Wurtzel writes, «When I was ready to fall in love for real, I stopped behaving badly, and I met someone great, and great for me.» (abovethelaw.com)