complain

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/kəmˈpleɪn/
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To speak up about something that feels wrong or uncomfortable.
Practice using complain in conversation until it feels natural

Examples

  • He complained of a headache.
  • The neighbours complained about the noise.
  • Patients often complain of a dry mouth.
  • He never complains, even when he is tired.
  • I complained to the manager about the cold food.

Similar words

report
find fault
mention
protest
grumble
object
describe

Meanings

Say something is wrong

verb
everyday
neutral
To say that a situation is wrong or unsatisfactory, often because you want it changed.

Examples

  • I complained to the manager about the cold food.
  • The neighbours complained about the noise.
  • She complains that the trains are always late.
  • He never complains, even when he is tired.
  • Several customers have complained about the bill.

Similar words

grumble
protest
object
find fault

Report discomfort

verb
health
neutral
To tell someone that you have pain or another symptom of illness.

Examples

  • He complained of a headache.
  • The child complained of stomach pain.
  • She had been complaining of dizziness.
  • Patients often complain of a dry mouth.
  • After the run, I complained of sore legs.

Similar words

report
describe
mention

Etymology

The word came from Old French complaindre, meaning “to lament or express distress.”

FAQ

What does complain mean?

It usually means to say that something is wrong or unsatisfactory.

Which preposition follows complain for a problem?

People usually complain about a problem to a person.

Can complain describe a health symptom?

Yes. Someone may complain of pain, dizziness or another symptom.

Is complain always formal?

No. It can be an everyday remark or a formal report of a problem.

What is the noun related to complain?

The noun is complaint.

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