This page in your language

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

A2 verb #4,500 most common 11 min read

complain

Top 4,500

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips complain in 30 Seconds

Explanation complain in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'complain' is a word you might use to express basic needs or simple dislikes. You learn that it means to say you are unhappy about something. You might use it in very short sentences like 'I complain to the teacher' or 'He complains about the cold.' At this stage, the focus is on recognizing the word and understanding that it is a negative expression. You don't need to know all the prepositions yet, but you should understand that when someone is complaining, they are not happy. It is often linked to basic feelings like being hungry, tired, or cold. You might hear it in simple classroom instructions like 'Don't complain, just do your work.' The goal is to identify the action of expressing a problem. You might also see it on simple signs in shops, like 'If you have a problem, complain here.' It's one of the first verbs you learn for social interaction when things aren't perfect. Even at A1, knowing how to say 'I want to complain' can be very useful if you are traveling and something is wrong with your room or food. It's a 'survival' word that helps you get help when you need it. You should also learn that the past tense is 'complained,' which is a regular verb. Simple examples would be 'The baby is complaining' (maybe it's crying) or 'I complained about the noise.' This level is about the 'who' and the 'what' of the complaint in the simplest terms possible. You are building the foundation for more complex expressions later.

At the A2 level, you begin to use 'complain' in more complete sentences with specific prepositions like 'about' and 'to'. You can now explain *what* you are unhappy about and *who* you are talking to. For example, 'I complained to the waiter about the soup.' You understand that 'complain' is a regular verb (complain/complained). You also start to see the difference between the verb 'complain' and the noun 'complaint' (e.g., 'I want to make a complaint'). At this level, you can use the word to describe common situations in daily life, such as at a restaurant, a hotel, or in a shop. You might also use it to talk about your health, using 'complain of' for simple things like 'She complained of a headache.' You are becoming more aware of the social context—knowing that complaining too much can be seen as negative. You can also use the present continuous to describe a habit, like 'He is always complaining about his job.' This adds a layer of description to your English. You are moving beyond just 'expressing a need' to 'describing a situation.' You might also encounter the word in simple stories or news reports about people who are unhappy with something in their town. The A2 learner should feel comfortable using 'complain' to solve basic problems they encounter while traveling or working. It's a key word for 'functional' English—getting things done and making sure your voice is heard when something is wrong.

At the B1 level, you can use 'complain' with more complexity, including 'that' clauses to give detailed reasons. Instead of just saying 'I complained about the food,' you can say 'I complained that the food was cold and the service was slow.' You also understand the nuances of tone. You know that 'complain' can be formal or informal. You might use it in a formal email: 'I am writing to complain about the service I received.' You also begin to learn synonyms like 'grumble' or 'moan' and understand when to use them. For instance, you know that 'grumbling' is quieter and less formal than 'complaining.' At B1, you can also use the word in the context of reporting what other people said (reported speech): 'They complained that the price was too high.' You are also more aware of common collocations like 'bitterly complain' or 'constantly complain.' You understand that the word can be used in a professional environment to discuss issues with colleagues or management. You can handle a situation where you need to negotiate a resolution to a complaint. This level is about 'expanding the detail' and 'adjusting the formality.' You might also encounter the word in more varied texts, like opinion pieces or more detailed news articles. You understand that 'complain' isn't just about being 'annoyed'; it's about identifying a specific fault or error. You can use it to advocate for yourself in a variety of intermediate social and professional situations.

At the B2 level, you use 'complain' with a high degree of precision. You understand the subtle differences between 'complain about,' 'complain of,' and 'complain to.' You can use the word in sophisticated structures, such as 'Having complained to the manager, she felt much better.' You are also familiar with idiomatic uses like 'I can't complain' (meaning things are fine). You understand the social implications of complaining in different cultures and can adjust your language to be more polite or more assertive as needed. You use a wider range of synonyms like 'gripe,' 'object,' or 'protest' to match the specific register of the situation. At this level, you can analyze a text where someone is complaining and understand their underlying motivations—are they seeking a refund, or just venting? You can also use the word in the context of abstract ideas, like 'philosophers complain of the lack of logic in modern life.' You understand the noun form 'complaint' in legal or medical contexts (e.g., 'the patient's chief complaint' or 'to file a formal complaint'). Your vocabulary is rich enough that you don't always use 'complain'; you might choose 'voice one's dissatisfaction' or 'express grievances' to sound more professional. You can participate in debates about 'complaint culture' and use the word to describe social trends. This level is about 'precision, idiom, and cultural awareness.' You can write a detailed, persuasive letter of complaint that uses a variety of structures to achieve a specific goal.

At the C1 level, you have a near-native grasp of 'complain.' You recognize its use in literature and formal rhetoric. You understand how the word can be used ironically or sarcastically. You can use it to describe complex social phenomena, such as 'the tendency of the middle class to complain about minor inconveniences.' You are comfortable with the legal and technical definitions of the word and its derivatives, like 'complainant.' You can use 'complain' in highly formal documents, such as legal briefs or academic papers, where it might describe a formal allegation. You also understand the etymological roots of the word and how that history affects its current meaning. Your use of the word is nuanced; you might use it to describe a character's personality in a literary analysis, noting how their constant complaining reflects their internal conflict. You can switch effortlessly between the casual 'moaning' and the formal 'lodging a complaint.' You also understand the passive voice use: 'It was complained that...' which is common in older or very formal texts. At C1, you are also sensitive to the 'weight' of the word. You know that in some contexts, 'complain' can sound too harsh, and you might choose a more euphemistic phrase like 'bring to your attention.' You can use the word to construct complex arguments about consumer rights or social justice. This level is about 'mastery, nuance, and rhetorical flexibility.'

At the C2 level, 'complain' is a tool you use with total fluency and stylistic flair. You understand its most obscure uses and its role in various dialects of English. You can use it in highly specialized contexts, such as describing the 'complaining' sound of a piece of machinery or the 'complaining' wind in a poem (personification). You are familiar with the history of the word from its Latin and Old French origins and how its meaning has shifted over centuries. You can write a satire about people who complain or a philosophical essay on the nature of human dissatisfaction. You understand the nuances of 'complain' in different English-speaking countries—for example, the specific cultural weight of 'whinging' in Australia or the UK compared to 'griping' in the US. You can use the word to create specific emotional effects in your writing, choosing it or its synonyms to create a particular rhythm or tone. You are aware of the legal distinctions between different types of 'complaints' in various jurisdictions. Your vocabulary is so broad that 'complain' is just one of dozens of options, and you choose it only when its specific connotations of 'vocalized dissatisfaction' are exactly what you need. You can handle the most difficult listening tasks, such as understanding a fast-paced, slang-filled argument where people are complaining using highly idiomatic language. This level represents 'total command, historical depth, and creative application.' You don't just use the word; you play with it.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

complain in 30 Seconds

A verb used to express that you are unhappy, annoyed, or dissatisfied with a situation, person, or thing.
Commonly paired with 'about' (the issue), 'to' (the person), or 'of' (for medical symptoms or pain).
Can be used informally (moaning) or formally (filing a legal complaint) to seek change or vent frustration.
Essential for customer service, professional feedback, and social interaction when standards are not met.

The verb complain is a fundamental part of human communication used to express dissatisfaction, discomfort, or annoyance. At its core, to complain is to state that something is unsatisfactory or unacceptable. This can range from a minor grumble about the weather to a formal legal grievance against a corporation. Understanding the nuances of this word involves recognizing the context, the audience, and the desired outcome of the speaker.

Daily Life: In everyday scenarios, people complain about trivial things like traffic, long lines, or the temperature of a room. These are often social lubricants, ways to bond with others over shared minor frustrations.

Customers often complain when the service is slow or the food is cold.

In a professional or service-oriented context, complaining takes on a more functional role. It serves as feedback. When a customer complains to a manager, they are usually seeking a resolution—a refund, a replacement, or an apology. This is a constructive use of the word. However, if someone is described as 'always complaining,' it carries a negative connotation, suggesting they are pessimistic or difficult to please. The act of complaining is often directed at someone (the person responsible) or about something (the source of the problem).

Medical Context: In medicine, 'complain of' is a specific technical phrase. A patient doesn't just 'have' a headache; they 'complain of' a headache to their doctor. This helps the medical professional identify the primary symptom or 'chief complaint.'

The patient complained of sharp pains in her lower back during the examination.

Furthermore, the frequency and intensity of complaints can define a person's social standing or personality. A 'chronic complainer' is someone who finds fault in every situation, which can lead to social isolation. Conversely, 'legitimate complaints' are those based on factual errors or poor quality, and these are essential for maintaining standards in business and governance. The word is versatile, covering everything from a child's whine about bedtime to a citizen's protest against government policy.

If you don't complain about the broken heater, the landlord will never know it needs fixing.

Legal and Formal Use: In legal terms, to complain is to bring a formal charge or accusation. This is the origin of the word 'complainant,' the person who starts a lawsuit. Here, the word loses its emotional weight and becomes a procedural action.

The neighbors complained to the police about the loud music at 3 AM.

Ultimately, complaining is about the gap between expectation and reality. When reality fails to meet our standards, we complain. It is a tool for change, a vent for frustration, and a necessary part of social negotiation. Whether you are complaining to your spouse about the dishes or to a multinational corporation about a faulty product, you are asserting your right to a certain standard of experience.

Stop complaining and help me finish this project!

The verb complain follows specific grammatical patterns that are crucial for clear communication. The most common structures involve the prepositions about, of, and to, as well as that-clauses. Mastering these patterns allows you to express dissatisfaction accurately across various contexts, from casual conversation to professional emails.

Complain + About: This is the most frequent usage. You complain about a situation, a thing, or a person's behavior. It describes the subject of your dissatisfaction.

She complained about the lack of parking spaces near the office.

When you want to specify who is receiving the complaint, use the preposition to. You complain to a person or an organization. Often, this is combined with about to create a complete picture of the interaction: 'I complained to the manager about the service.' This structure clearly identifies the recipient of the grievance and the cause of the grievance.

Complain + Of: This pattern is specifically used for physical symptoms or illnesses. It is more formal and common in medical settings.

He complained of dizziness after standing up too quickly.

Another powerful way to use this word is with a that-clause. This allows you to explain a whole situation or a fact that is bothering you. For example, 'He complained that the instructions were too confusing.' This structure is excellent for reporting speech or providing detailed reasons for dissatisfaction in writing.

The employees complained that their salaries had not been paid on time.

Continuous Tenses: Using the present continuous ('is complaining') often suggests a current, ongoing action or a persistent habit that is annoying to the speaker.

You're always complaining! Can't you just enjoy the vacation?

In formal writing, such as a letter of complaint, the verb is often part of a more complex sentence. 'I am writing to formally complain about...' is a standard opening. Here, the word is used to signal the purpose of the communication clearly and professionally. It sets a serious tone and expects a formal response.

We wish to complain in the strongest possible terms about the proposed changes.

Finally, remember that 'complain' can be used ironically. When someone says, 'I can't complain,' they actually mean that things are going well, or at least that they have no major problems. It is a common, idiomatic response to the question 'How are you?' This shows how the word has permeated social etiquette beyond its literal meaning of finding fault.

You will encounter the word complain in a vast array of real-world environments. It is a 'high-frequency' word because dissatisfaction is a universal human experience. From the high-stakes environment of a courtroom to the casual chatter of a coffee shop, 'complain' serves as the primary verb for expressing that things are not as they should be.

Customer Service Centers: This is perhaps the most common place to hear the word. Call centers are literally built to handle people who complain. You'll hear phrases like 'The customer is complaining about a billing error' or 'I need to complain about my internet speed.'

If you have a problem with your order, please complain via our online portal.

In news media and journalism, the word is used to describe public reaction to government policies or corporate actions. Headlines often read 'Residents Complain of Noise Pollution' or 'Commuters Complain about Train Delays.' In this context, it represents the collective voice of a community seeking change or highlighting a problem that affects many people.

The Workplace: In offices, 'complain' is often used during performance reviews or HR meetings. 'He complained that the workload was too heavy' or 'She complained about her colleague's behavior.' It's a word used to navigate professional boundaries and expectations.

Don't complain to me; I don't make the rules!

In television dramas and movies, complaining is a key way to develop character. A character who complains constantly might be the 'comic relief' or the 'villain.' It shows their perspective on the world. In medical dramas (like House or Grey's Anatomy), you will frequently hear doctors asking, 'What is the patient complaining of?' to begin their diagnosis process.

The protagonist complained that the city was stripping him of his soul.

Social Media: Platforms like Twitter (X) are famous for 'complaint culture.' Users complain about everything from movie spoilers to political scandals. Here, the word is often associated with 'venting'—complaining just to release stress without necessarily expecting a fix.

I'm not one to complain, but this app update is terrible.

Finally, you'll hear 'complain' in sports commentary. When a player is unhappy with a referee's decision, the commentator might say, 'He's complaining to the official about that foul call.' This highlights how the word is used in high-pressure, competitive environments where every detail matters. It's a word that captures the friction of life.

Even though complain is a common word, learners often make specific errors in preposition usage, word form, and intensity. Avoiding these mistakes will make your English sound more natural and ensure that your grievances are understood correctly.

Mistake 1: Confusing Noun and Verb: The most common error is saying 'I have a complain' instead of 'I have a complaint' or 'I want to complain.' Remember: complain is the action, complaint is the thing.

Incorrect: He made a complain.
Correct: He made a complaint.

Another frequent mistake involves the preposition about. Some learners try to use 'complain' as a transitive verb, omitting the preposition entirely. You cannot 'complain the food.' You must 'complain about the food.' This 'about' is the bridge between the action and the object of your frustration.

Mistake 2: Using 'Of' instead of 'About': While 'complain of' is correct for medical symptoms, using it for general problems sounds strange. Don't say 'I complain of the traffic'; say 'I complain about the traffic.'

Incorrect: She complained of the bad weather.
Correct: She complained about the bad weather.

Overusing the word can also be a mistake in social pragmatics. If you 'complain' too often in English, you may be labeled as 'whiny' or 'negative.' To sound more sophisticated, you can use alternatives like 'point out a problem,' 'express a concern,' or 'raise an issue,' especially in professional settings.

Instead of: 'I want to complain about the delay.'
Try: 'I would like to raise a concern regarding the delay.'

Mistake 3: Misplacing the Recipient: Learners sometimes forget to use 'to' when mentioning the person they are talking to. 'I complained the teacher' is incorrect. It must be 'I complained to the teacher.'

Incorrect: Don't complain me.
Correct: Don't complain to me.

Lastly, be careful with the spelling of the past tense and participle: complained. Some learners confuse it with complaint (the noun) or compliant (the adjective meaning 'obeying rules'). These are very different words! Ensure you are using the 'ed' ending when describing a past action of expressing dissatisfaction.

While complain is the standard word for expressing dissatisfaction, English offers a rich variety of synonyms that convey different levels of intensity, formality, and emotion. Choosing the right alternative can make your speech more precise and help you navigate social situations more effectively.

Grumble vs. Complain: To grumble is to complain in a low, quiet, or surly voice. It often implies that the person is complaining to themselves or in a way that isn't intended to solve the problem, but just to express annoyance.

He grumbled about the early start as he sipped his coffee.

Whine and whinge (UK) are much more negative. They describe complaining in a high-pitched, annoying, or childish way. If you tell someone they are 'whining,' you are usually telling them to stop being annoying and that their complaint is not very important.

Moan vs. Complain: In casual British English, moan is frequently used. It's similar to 'complain' but often implies that the person does it all the time about things they can't change. 'Stop moaning about the rain!'

The students were moaning about the amount of homework they had.

In a formal or professional setting, object or protest are better choices. To 'object' means to express opposition to something, often on the grounds of principle or rules. 'I object to the way this meeting is being handled.' This is a much stronger and more formal way of complaining that demands immediate attention.

Several residents protested against the new shopping mall development.

Gripe and Grouse: These are more informal, often American, terms. A gripe is a minor complaint, often one that people share to bond. To grouse is to complain or grumble, often about work or conditions.

The soldiers spent the evening grousing about the bland food.

Finally, consider lament. This is a very formal, almost poetic word. It doesn't just mean to complain about a problem, but to express deep sorrow or regret about something that has been lost or changed for the worse. 'He lamented the passing of the old traditions.' Using this word elevates the complaint into an expression of grief or profound disappointment.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

The root 'plangere' is also the source of the word 'plaintive' (sounding sad) and 'plankton' (from a Greek root meaning to wander or drift, though not directly related to the Latin 'strike').

Pronunciation Guide

UK /kəmˈpleɪn/

US /kəmˈpleɪn/

Second syllable (com-PLAIN)

Rhymes With

plain rain drain stain train main gain pain brain

Common Errors

Pronouncing the first syllable as 'kom' with a strong 'o'. It should be a schwa /ə/.
Confusing the pronunciation with 'complaint' (which ends in a 't' sound).
Failing to stress the second syllable.
Pronouncing the 'ai' like 'eye' instead of 'ay'.
Omitting the 'n' sound at the end.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize in most texts due to its high frequency.

Writing 3/5

Requires correct preposition usage (about/to/of) which can be tricky.

Speaking 2/5

Simple pronunciation, though 'complain' vs 'complaint' is a common slip.

Listening 2/5

Easily heard, but tone (sarcasm/irony) can change the meaning.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

unhappy problem say bad service

Learn Next

complaint dissatisfied grievance negotiate resolution

Advanced

lament remonstrate carp quibble demur

Grammar to Know

Prepositional Verbs

Complain belongs to a group of verbs that require a specific preposition (about) to link to an object.

Reported Speech with 'That'

He complained that he was tired. (Notice the tense shift in 'was').

Present Continuous for Annoyance

Using 'always' with present continuous: 'She is always complaining.'

Gerunds after Prepositions

He complained about having to wait. (Verb + preposition + -ing).

Zero Article with General Concepts

People complain about life. (No 'the' before 'life').

Examples by Level

I complain about the food.

Me quejo de la comida.

Present simple for a general fact.

He complains to his mom.

Él se queja con su mamá.

Use 'to' for the person.

The baby complains.

El bebé se queja.

Intransitive use.

Do not complain!

¡No te quejes!

Imperative form.

She complained yesterday.

Ella se quejó ayer.

Past simple (regular -ed).

We complain about the cold.

Nos quejamos del frío.

Preposition 'about'.

They never complain.

Ellos nunca se quejan.

Adverb of frequency 'never'.

I want to complain.

Quiero quejarme.

Infinitive after 'want'.

I complained to the manager about the noise.

Me quejé con el gerente por el ruido.

Structure: Complain to [person] about [thing].

She often complains of a stomach ache.

A menudo se queja de dolor de estómago.

'Complain of' is used for medical symptoms.

He is always complaining about his homework.

Él siempre se está quejando de su tarea.

Present continuous + 'always' for annoying habits.

If you are unhappy, you should complain.

Si no estás feliz, deberías quejarte.

Modal verb 'should' for advice.

The neighbors complained about the loud music.

Los vecinos se quejaron de la música fuerte.

Past simple describing a specific event.

I'm not complaining, but the room is small.

No me estoy quejando, pero la habitación es pequeña.

Softening a criticism.

Did you complain to the airline?

¿Te quejaste con la aerolínea?

Question form in past simple.

She complained that the bus was late.

Ella se quejó de que el autobús llegaba tarde.

Complain + that clause.

I am writing to complain about the faulty product I received.

Le escribo para quejarme del producto defectuoso que recibí.

Formal opening for a letter of complaint.

He complained that he hadn't been given enough information.

Se quejó de que no se le había dado suficiente información.

Past perfect in the 'that' clause.

Stop moaning and complaining about things you can't change!

¡Deja de gemir y quejarte de cosas que no puedes cambiar!

Using synonyms to add emphasis.

The workers complained bitterly about the pay cut.

Los trabajadores se quejaron amargamente del recorte salarial.

Adverb 'bitterly' showing intensity.

She has nothing to complain about in her new job.

No tiene nada de qué quejarse en su nuevo trabajo.

Negative structure 'nothing to complain about'.

They complained to the council about the state of the roads.

Se quejaron ante el ayuntamiento por el estado de las carreteras.

Formal recipient 'the council'.

He complained of feeling faint after the race.

Se quejó de sentirse mareado después de la carrera.

'Complain of' + gerund (-ing).

I've complained three times, but nothing has happened.

Me he quejado tres veces, pero no ha pasado nada.

Present perfect for repeated actions.

Few people complained, despite the obvious injustice of the situation.

Pocas personas se quejaron, a pesar de la obvia injusticia de la situación.

Conjunction 'despite' used with the verb.

You can hardly complain about the weather after such a beautiful summer.

Difícilmente puedes quejarte del tiempo después de un verano tan hermoso.

Adverb 'hardly' used for emphasis.

The patient complained of persistent chest pains and shortness of breath.

El paciente se quejó de dolores persistentes en el pecho y dificultad para respirar.

Professional medical reporting.

I've got no reason to complain; life has been good to me.

No tengo motivos para quejarme; la vida ha sido buena conmigo.

Idiomatic expression of contentment.

He was always griping and complaining about the management.

Siempre estaba refunfuñando y quejándose de la gerencia.

Using 'gripe' as a more informal synonym.

If you don't voice your complaint, you can't expect things to improve.

Si no expresas tu queja, no puedes esperar que las cosas mejoren.

Noun form 'complaint' used in a conditional sentence.

She complained that the contract was biased in favor of the employer.

Ella se quejó de que el contrato estaba sesgado a favor del empleador.

Complex 'that' clause with passive/adjectival structure.

They complained to the authorities about the environmental damage.

Se quejaron ante las autoridades por el daño ambiental.

Formal context: 'the authorities'.

Critics complain that the film prioritizes style over substance.

Los críticos se quejan de que la película prioriza el estilo sobre el contenido.

Abstract usage in professional criticism.

One might complain that the author relies too heavily on tropes.

Uno podría quejarse de que el autor depende demasiado de los tropos.

Hypothetical 'one might' for formal analysis.

The complainant alleged that the company had breached safety protocols.

El demandante alegó que la empresa había incumplido los protocolos de seguridad.

Noun derivative 'complainant' in a legal context.

He is not one to complain, even when faced with significant adversity.

No es de los que se quejan, incluso cuando se enfrenta a una adversidad significativa.

Character description using 'not one to'.

Historians often complain about the lack of primary sources for this period.

Los historiadores a menudo se quejan de la falta de fuentes primarias para este período.

Professional academic context.

The machinery complained loudly as it was pushed beyond its limits.

La maquinaria se quejó ruidosamente mientras era forzada más allá de sus límites.

Personification of a non-human object.

It has been complained that the new tax is inherently regressive.

Se ha quejado de que el nuevo impuesto es intrínsecamente regresivo.

Passive reporting structure (very formal).

She lamented the fact that people only complain when things go wrong.

Lamentó el hecho de que la gente solo se queje cuando las cosas salen mal.

Using 'lament' as a high-register synonym.

To complain is to engage in a dialectic between expectation and reality.

Quejarse es participar en una dialéctica entre la expectativa y la realidad.

Philosophical/Abstract use of the infinitive.

The wind complained through the eaves of the abandoned mansion.

El viento se quejaba a través de los aleros de la mansión abandonada.

Literary personification.

He would constantly whinge and complain, a habit that eventually alienated his peers.

Constantemente se quejaba y lloriqueaba, un hábito que finalmente lo alejó de sus compañeros.

Nuanced character study using 'whinge'.

The legal brief detailed how the plaintiffs complained of systemic negligence.

El informe legal detalló cómo los demandantes se quejaron de negligencia sistémica.

Technical legal usage 'complained of'.

She has little to complain of, yet she finds fault in the most exquisite circumstances.

Tiene poco de qué quejarse, pero encuentra fallas en las circunstancias más exquisitas.

Sophisticated use of 'little to complain of'.

The sheer volume of people complaining about the algorithm suggests a fundamental flaw.

El gran volumen de personas que se quejan del algoritmo sugiere un fallo fundamental.

Gerund phrase as a subject.

One might well complain of the encroaching banality of modern architecture.

Bien podría uno quejarse de la invasiva banalidad de la arquitectura moderna.

Refined rhetorical structure 'might well complain of'.

His life was a series of complaints, each more elaborate than the last.

Su vida era una serie de quejas, cada una más elaborada que la anterior.

Noun form 'complaint' in a metaphorical sense.

Common Collocations

complain bitterly

constantly complain

formally complain

legitimate reason to complain

complain of a headache

complain to the manager

right to complain

loudly complain

nothing to complain about

rarely complain

Common Phrases

I can't complain.

— A common way to say that things are going well or are acceptable.

How's work? Oh, I can't complain.

Don't complain to me.

— Used to tell someone that you are not the person who can fix their problem.

If you don't like the rules, don't complain to me; I didn't make them.

Something to complain about.

— A reason or cause for dissatisfaction.

He's always looking for something to complain about.

A reason to complain.

— A valid or justifiable cause for being unhappy.

You have no reason to complain; you got exactly what you asked for.

The chief complaint.

— In medicine, the main reason a patient is seeking help.

The patient's chief complaint was chest pain.

Stop your complaining!

— A command to someone to stop expressing their dissatisfaction.

Stop your complaining and get to work!

I'm not one to complain, but...

— A phrase used to introduce a complaint while trying to sound reasonable.

I'm not one to complain, but the music is a bit loud.

To complain of symptoms.

— To report physical problems to a doctor.

She complained of symptoms similar to the flu.

To lodge a complaint.

— To make a formal complaint to an organization.

He decided to lodge a complaint with the police.

A formal complaint.

— A complaint made through official channels.

She filed a formal complaint against her supervisor.

Often Confused With

complain vs complaint

Complaint is the noun (a thing), while complain is the verb (the action).

complain vs compliant

Compliant is an adjective meaning 'obeying the rules'—the opposite of someone who complains!

complain vs explain

Sometimes confused due to the similar ending, but explain means to give information, while complain means to express unhappiness.

Idioms & Expressions

"Complain to high heaven"

— To complain very loudly and persistently to anyone who will listen.

When they cut the trees down, the neighbors complained to high heaven.

informal

"Mustn't complain"

— A British expression used to mean that despite some problems, things are generally okay.

It's been a tough week, but mustn't complain.

informal/UK

"A bellyache"

— Slang for a complaint or to complain persistently.

I'm tired of his constant bellyaching about the office temperature.

slang/US

"Squeaky wheel gets the grease"

— The person who complains the most or most loudly is the one who gets attention or service.

I kept calling them until they fixed it; the squeaky wheel gets the grease.

proverbial

"To have a bone to pick"

— To have a reason to complain or a grievance to discuss with someone.

I have a bone to pick with you about the mess you left in the kitchen.

informal

"To air one's grievances"

— To publicly state one's complaints or reasons for being unhappy.

The meeting gave employees a chance to air their grievances.

neutral/formal

"To make a mountain out of a molehill"

— To complain excessively about a very small and unimportant problem.

Stop complaining about the scratched pen; you're making a mountain out of a molehill.

informal

"To cry wolf"

— To complain or raise an alarm about a problem that doesn't exist, so people don't believe you later.

If you keep complaining about fake injuries, nobody will help when you're actually hurt.

literary/idiomatic

"Nothing to write home about"

— Used to say that something is not very good or special, though not necessarily bad enough to complain about.

The hotel was okay, but nothing to write home about.

informal

"To take someone to task"

— To complain to someone strongly about their behavior or work.

The manager took him to task for his repeated lateness.

formal

Easily Confused

complain vs Grumble

Both mean to express unhappiness.

Grumbling is usually quieter and more to oneself, while complaining is more direct.

He grumbled under his breath but didn't actually complain to the boss.

complain vs Whine

Both involve expressing dissatisfaction.

Whining is specifically annoying and high-pitched, often used for children.

Stop whining about your toys!

complain vs Protest

Both involve saying something is wrong.

Protest is more formal and often involves a group of people fighting for a cause.

They protested against the new building.

complain vs Moan

Both used for dissatisfaction.

In British English, moaning is often used for trivial, repeated complaints.

She's always moaning about her hair.

complain vs Lament

Both involve expressing a negative feeling.

Lamenting is more about sadness or grief over something lost, rather than annoyance.

He lamented the loss of his old neighborhood.

Sentence Patterns

Subject + complain + about + noun.

I complain about the rain.

Subject + complain + to + person.

He complained to the teacher.

Subject + complain + that + clause.

They complained that the price was high.

Subject + auxiliary + always + complaining.

You are always complaining!

Subject + complain + of + symptom.

The patient complained of nausea.

There is no reason + to complain.

There is no reason to complain.

It was complained + that + clause.

It was complained that the law was unfair.

Subject + might well + complain + of + noun.

One might well complain of the noise.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Highly common in both spoken and written English, especially in service-oriented societies.

Common Mistakes

I have a complain. → I have a complaint.
'Complain' is a verb; 'complaint' is the noun you need here.
She complained me. → She complained to me.
You must use the preposition 'to' before the person who hears the complaint.
He complained the food. → He complained about the food.
You must use 'about' to link the verb to the thing causing dissatisfaction.
I complain of the traffic. → I complain about the traffic.
'Complain of' is reserved for medical symptoms or very formal literary use.
They are always complain. → They are always complaining.
When using 'always' to describe a habit, use the present continuous form.

Tips

Preposition Power

Always remember: Complain TO a person, ABOUT a thing. This is the most important rule for using the word correctly.

The Power of 'But'

When complaining, use 'but' to soften the blow. 'The food is great, but it's a bit cold.' This makes people more likely to help you.

Don't be a Complainer

If you use 'complain' too much, people might think you are a negative person. Try using 'suggest' or 'mention' instead.

Doctor Talk

If you go to a doctor in an English-speaking country, be ready to answer the question 'What are you complaining of?' by listing your symptoms.

Formal Complaints

In a formal email, use 'I am writing to formally complain...' to ensure your message is taken seriously.

Synonym Swap

Use 'grumble' for small things and 'protest' for big things to make your English sound more varied.

I Can't Complain

Use this phrase when someone asks 'How are you?' to sound like a natural English speaker.

Noun vs Verb

Always check: 'I want to complain' (verb) vs 'I have a complaint' (noun). This is the #1 mistake learners make.

Tone Matters

Listen to the 'music' of the sentence. A whiny tone means a small complaint; a firm tone means a serious one.

Cultural Awareness

Be aware that in some cultures, complaining is seen as very rude. Adjust your directness based on who you are talking to.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a **plain** person **com**ing to you to say they are unhappy. 'Com-plain'. Or think: 'I'm in **pain**, so I **complain**.'

Visual Association

Imagine a person at a restaurant holding up a tiny, cold pea and pointing at it while talking to a waiter with a serious face.

Word Web

dissatisfaction annoyance feedback manager symptoms noise service protest

Challenge

Try to go a whole day without using the word 'complain' or actually complaining about anything. Notice how often you feel the urge to do so!

Word Origin

From the Old French word 'complaindre', which comes from the Late Latin 'complangere'.

Original meaning: 'Com-' (intensive) + 'plangere' (to strike one's breast, to lament). It originally meant to beat one's breast in grief.

Indo-European -> Italic -> Romance -> French -> English.

Cultural Context

Be careful not to label people from different cultures as 'complainers' just because they express dissatisfaction differently. Also, 'complain of' in medicine is a neutral term, not an insult.

Complaining is often done with 'softeners' like 'I don't mean to be difficult, but...' to maintain social harmony.

The 'Karen' meme (US) Monty Python's 'Dead Parrot' sketch (a famous comedy scene about complaining) The character Eeyore from Winnie the Pooh (a chronic complainer)

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

In a Restaurant

I want to complain about the food.
Could I speak to the manager?
This is not what I ordered.
The soup is cold.

At a Hotel

I'd like to complain about the noise.
My room hasn't been cleaned.
The air conditioning isn't working.
I'm not happy with my stay.

At Work

I need to complain about the workload.
He complained that the deadline was too tight.
We should lodge a formal complaint.
She's always complaining about her boss.

At the Doctor

What are you complaining of today?
I'm complaining of a sharp pain in my leg.
He complained of feeling dizzy.
She's been complaining of tiredness.

In a Relationship

You're always complaining about me!
I'm not complaining, I'm just telling you how I feel.
Stop complaining about the dishes.
We need to talk about your constant complaining.

Conversation Starters

"Do you think people in your country complain too much about the weather?"

"When was the last time you had to complain about a product or service?"

"Is it better to complain and get a result, or stay quiet and be polite?"

"What is the one thing you always find yourself complaining about?"

"Have you ever complained to a manager and received a refund?"

Journal Prompts

Write about a time you complained about something and it actually made the situation worse.

Describe a person you know who never complains. What do you think their secret is?

If you could complain to the government about one thing, what would it be and why?

Reflect on the difference between 'venting' to a friend and 'complaining' to a professional.

Write a formal letter to a company complaining about a fictional, ridiculous product.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

It is a regular verb. The past tense and past participle are both 'complained'.

No, you must use a preposition. You should say 'I complain about the service' or 'I complain to the manager'.

'Complain about' is for general things (traffic, noise). 'Complain of' is used for medical symptoms (headache, pain).

Yes, it always expresses some level of dissatisfaction, though it can be used constructively in customer service.

The noun form is 'complaint'. For example: 'I want to make a complaint'.

Only in the idiom 'I can't complain,' which means things are good. Otherwise, it is only for negative things.

'Whinge' is a more informal and negative version used mostly in British and Australian English.

Use phrases like 'I'm sorry to bother you, but...' or 'I'm afraid there's a problem with...' before you complain.

It means to make a formal, official complaint to a company or organization.

Metaphorically, yes. You might say 'the cat is complaining' if it is meowing loudly for food.