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A2 verb #6,500 most common 11 min read

queixar

Top 6,500

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips queixar in 30 Seconds

Explanation queixar in your Level:

At the A1 level, you are just beginning to learn how to express your basic needs and feelings. 'Queixar-se' might be a bit challenging because it is reflexive, but it is important for saying simple things like 'I have a pain' or 'I don't like this.' At this stage, focus on the most common form: 'Eu me queixo' (Brazil) or 'Queixo-me' (Portugal). You will mostly use it to talk about yourself or to understand when a doctor asks if you are in pain. You don't need to worry about complex tenses yet; just the present tense is enough. Think of it as a way to say 'I am unhappy about...' or 'I feel...'. For example, 'Eu me queixo do frio' (I complain about the cold). This is a very useful sentence when you are traveling! You might also see the word 'queixa' in shops, which means 'complaint.' Even if you can't conjugate the verb perfectly, knowing that 'queixa' is about something being wrong will help you navigate daily life in a Portuguese-speaking country. Remember, at A1, the goal is communication, not perfection. If you forget the 'me' or 'se', people will still likely understand you, but try to include it to build good habits early on. Practice saying 'Eu me queixo' slowly and clearly.

At the A2 level, you should start using 'queixar-se' with different subjects and in the simple past tense. You are now able to talk about other people's complaints too. For example, 'Ela se queixa muito do trabalho' (She complains a lot about work). You should also be comfortable using the preposition 'de' correctly, knowing that it combines with articles (do, da, dos, das). At this level, you begin to see the difference between 'queixar-se' and 'reclamar.' While you use 'reclamar' for things like a late bus, you use 'queixar-se' for more personal things like a headache or feeling sad. You should also practice the negative form: 'Ele não se queixa' (He doesn't complain). This is important for describing people's personalities or your own resilience. You might also start to use it in the 'Pretérito Perfeito' to describe something that happened once: 'Ontem, o meu filho se queixou de dor de barriga' (Yesterday, my son complained of a stomach ache). This level is about expanding your ability to describe the world around you and the people in it. Pay attention to how the pronoun 'se' stays the same for 'ele', 'ela', and 'você', but changes for 'eu' (me) and 'nós' (nos). This consistency is a key feature of the Portuguese language that you are now mastering.

At the B1 level, you are expected to use 'queixar-se' more naturally in a variety of tenses, including the 'Pretérito Imperfeito' (used for habits) and the 'Futuro do Presente'. You can now describe ongoing situations: 'Quando eu era criança, eu me queixava sempre da sopa' (When I was a child, I always used to complain about the soup). You are also starting to understand the nuances of pronoun placement more deeply. In Portugal, you know that you say 'Queixei-me' but 'Não me queixei'. In Brazil, you are comfortable with 'Eu me queixei'. You can use the verb in more complex sentence structures, such as with 'que' clauses: 'Ele queixa-se de que ninguém o ouve' (He complains that no one listens to him). This allows you to express more detailed grievances. You are also becoming aware of the formal 'apresentar uma queixa' in legal or administrative contexts. You might read news articles where citizens 'se queixam' of government policies. Your vocabulary is growing to include synonyms like 'resmungar' or 'lamentar,' and you know when to use 'queixar-se' instead of them to sound more like a native speaker. This level is about moving from simple descriptions to more fluid and varied expression of ideas and feelings.

At the B2 level, you have a strong command of 'queixar-se' and can use it in the subjunctive mood, which is essential for expressing doubts, desires, or hypothetical situations. For example: 'É normal que ele se queixe' (It's normal that he complains) or 'Se ela se queixasse menos, seria mais feliz' (If she complained less, she would be happier). You understand the subtle differences between 'queixar-se de' and 'queixar-se a'. You can use the verb in professional settings, such as writing a formal email to a manager or a customer service department. You are also familiar with idiomatic expressions and the noun 'queixume' (a lament or constant complaining). You can follow complex discussions about social issues where people 'se queixam' of systemic problems. Your listening skills are sharp enough to catch the word even when spoken quickly in different regional accents. You understand that 'queixar-se' can sometimes have a poetic or literary tone, especially in songs or older texts. At this stage, you are not just using the word; you are playing with it, using it to add emphasis or color to your speech. You are also able to correct yourself and others on the proper use of reflexive pronouns and prepositions.

At the C1 level, your use of 'queixar-se' is sophisticated and contextually precise. You can use it to express subtle shades of dissatisfaction or to analyze the behavior of others. You might use it in academic or literary contexts, perhaps discussing the 'queixa' of a character in a novel or the collective 'queixa' of a marginalized group in a sociological study. You are fully aware of the historical etymology of the word and how it relates to other Romance languages. You can use complex grammatical structures like the personal infinitive: 'O facto de eles se queixarem não muda nada' (The fact that they complain doesn't change anything). You understand the irony or sarcasm when someone says "Não te queixes!" in a situation where complaining is clearly justified. You can distinguish between the 'queixa-crime' (a specific legal term in Portugal) and a general 'reclamação'. Your speech is fluent, and the reflexive pronouns flow naturally without conscious thought. You can also use the verb metaphorically, such as 'A madeira queixa-se com o calor' (The wood 'complains'—creaks—with the heat). At this level, the word is a versatile tool in your linguistic arsenal, allowing you to navigate even the most complex social and professional situations in the Portuguese-speaking world.

At the C2 level, you have reached a near-native mastery of 'queixar-se'. You can appreciate and use the verb in its most archaic or literary forms. You might encounter it in 16th-century texts like 'Os Lusíadas' or in the dense, philosophical prose of Fernando Pessoa. You understand the full range of its emotional and legal implications. You can use it to discuss complex legal precedents involving 'queixas' or to engage in high-level literary criticism. Your ability to use the verb is indistinguishable from a highly educated native speaker. You can navigate the most subtle differences in pronoun placement across all Lusophone variants (Angola, Mozambique, etc.) with ease. You might even use the verb in a self-reflexive, philosophical way to discuss the nature of human suffering and the act of voicing it. At this level, 'queixar-se' is not just a verb; it is a window into the Lusophone soul, capturing centuries of history, culture, and emotion. You can use it with absolute precision in any register, from the most informal street slang to the most formal diplomatic correspondence. You have a deep, intuitive understanding of when the word is most effective and can use it to influence, persuade, or move your audience.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

queixar in 30 Seconds

Queixar-se is a reflexive verb used to express dissatisfaction, physical pain, or moral grievances. It is essential for medical and social contexts in Portuguese.
The verb almost always requires a reflexive pronoun (me, te, se, nos, vos) and is typically followed by the preposition 'de' to indicate the cause.
While similar to 'reclamar', 'queixar-se' is often more personal or passive, whereas 'reclamar' can be more assertive and demand a specific resolution.
In formal settings, 'apresentar uma queixa' is the standard way to file a police report or a legal complaint, making it a high-stakes word.

The Portuguese verb queixar-se is a fundamental part of daily communication, essentially meaning "to complain," "to moan," or "to express dissatisfaction." However, its usage is more nuanced than its English counterparts. Primarily used as a pronominal verb (meaning it almost always requires a reflexive pronoun like me, te, se, nos), it captures the act of voicing internal discomfort, whether physical, emotional, or situational. In Portuguese culture, expressing one's grievances is not always seen as negative; it is often a way to seek empathy or to establish a shared reality with others. When you say you are "queixando-se," you are often inviting the listener to acknowledge your struggle.

The Reflexive Nature: Unlike the English verb 'to complain,' which can stand alone, 'queixar' is almost always reflexive: 'queixar-se'. You don't just complain; you 'complain yourself' to someone about something.

The verb is frequently followed by the preposition de (of/about). For instance, if you have a headache, you would say "queixo-me de dor de cabeça." This specific structure is vital for learners to master. It isn't just about the words; it's about the connection between the subject and the source of the complaint. In social contexts, it can range from a lighthearted grumble about the weather to a serious formal grievance filed in a legal or professional setting. Understanding the weight of the complaint often depends on the tone and the specific synonyms used alongside it.

Eles sempre se queixam do barulho dos vizinhos durante a noite.

Translation: They always complain about the neighbors' noise during the night.

Furthermore, 'queixar-se' carries a weight of personal involvement. When someone 'se queixa,' they are often the victim of the circumstance. This differs from 'protestar' (to protest), which is more external and objective. In a medical context, a patient 'queixa-se' of symptoms. The doctor will ask: "De que é que se queixa?" (What are your complaints?). This makes it an essential verb for anyone living in a Portuguese-speaking country, as it is the standard way to describe symptoms to a healthcare provider. It is not merely 'whining'; it is the clinical reporting of pain or discomfort.

Social Dynamics: In Portugal, 'queixar-se' can be a form of social bonding. Sharing small complaints about work or the economy is a common 'ice-breaker' in cafes.

Não te queixes tanto; a vida é bela!

Translation: Don't complain so much; life is beautiful!

In more advanced literature, the verb takes on a poetic quality. It can describe the 'complaint' of the wind or the 'moan' of a musical instrument. This metaphorical usage elevates the word from a simple daily verb to a tool for artistic expression. However, for an A2 learner, the focus should remain on the reflexive pronouns and the preposition 'de'. Mastering 'eu me queixo', 'tu te queixas', and 'ele se queixa' is the first step toward fluency in expressing needs and boundaries.

Formal vs. Informal: While 'reclamar' is very common for 'complaining' in a shop, 'apresentar uma queixa' is the formal way to file an official report or police complaint.

Vou queixar-me ao diretor sobre o comportamento dele.

Using queixar-se correctly requires a solid understanding of reflexive pronouns and prepositional phrases. The most common structure is: Subject + Reflexive Pronoun + Verb + 'de' + Object. This structure allows you to specify exactly what is causing the dissatisfaction. Because it is a regular -ar verb (mostly), the conjugation follows standard patterns, but the pronoun placement is the tricky part for English speakers who aren't used to reflexive verbs.

Present Tense Usage: Used for current feelings or habits. 'Eu me queixo da comida' (I complain about the food). Note how the 'me' indicates the action reflects back on the speaker.

In the past tense, specifically the Pretérito Perfeito, it describes a specific instance of complaining. "Ontem, ela se queixou do frio" (Yesterday, she complained about the cold). If the complaining was a habit in the past, use the Pretérito Imperfeito: "Antigamente, nós nos queixávamos de tudo" (In the old days, we used to complain about everything). This distinction is crucial for storytelling and describing past experiences accurately.

Se você continuar a queixar-se, ninguém vai querer te ajudar.

Translation: If you continue to complain, no one will want to help you.

When using the imperative (giving orders), the pronoun usually attaches to the end of the verb in European Portuguese: "Queixa-te ao teu pai!" (Complain to your father!). In Brazil, you are more likely to hear "Se queixa para o seu pai!", although 'reclamar' might be preferred in this specific imperative context. The flexibility of 'queixar-se' allows it to be used with people ('queixar-se a alguém') or things ('queixar-se de algo').

The Negative Form: In negative sentences, the pronoun moves before the verb: 'Eu não me queixo de nada'. This is a standard rule in Portuguese grammar (proclisis).

O paciente queixava-se de dores fortes no peito antes de desmaiar.

Finally, consider the future tense or conditional for hypothetical situations. "Eu me queixaria se o serviço fosse ruim" (I would complain if the service were bad). This level of complexity is where A2 learners begin to transition into B1. By varying the tenses and the objects of the complaint, you can express a wide range of emotions and requirements in Portuguese, making your speech sound more natural and precise.

Nós vamos queixar-nos formalmente se o problema não for resolvido.

You will encounter queixar-se in several distinct environments, each providing a different flavor to the word. The most common place is in a medical setting. Doctors in Portugal and Brazil will almost certainly use this verb to ask about your symptoms. It is the clinical standard. If you visit a 'Centro de Saúde', you will hear patients saying, "Venho queixar-me de uma dor nas costas." Here, the word is professional and necessary for diagnosis.

The Doctor's Office: 'O que é que o traz aqui?' (What brings you here?) followed by 'De que se queixa?' is the standard medical opening.

Another major context is the legal and administrative world. In Portugal, there is a famous 'Livro de Reclamações' (Complaints Book) in every shop, but when you go to the police (PSP or GNR) to report a crime, you are 'apresentar uma queixa'. This is a formal 'charge' or 'complaint'. Hearing this in the news is common: "A vítima apresentou queixa contra o agressor." In this context, it isn't just moaning; it's a legal action that starts a formal process.

O cliente decidiu queixar-se à polícia após o roubo do seu telemóvel.

Translation: The customer decided to complain to the police after his phone was stolen.

In everyday social life, you'll hear it in conversations between friends. It often appears in the negative to show resilience: "Não me queixo" (I'm not complaining/I can't complain), which is a common response to "How are you?". It implies that while things aren't perfect, they are acceptable. In the workplace, colleagues might 'queixar-se' about the boss or the workload during a coffee break, serving as a bonding mechanism through shared frustration.

Customer Service: While 'reclamar' is the act of complaining to a clerk, 'queixa' is the noun for the formal document you might write afterward.

Muitos cidadãos queixam-se da falta de transportes públicos na zona rural.

Lastly, you'll find it in literature and Fado music. Fado, the soul of Portuguese music, is essentially a 'queixa' – a musical complaint or lament about fate, lost love, or 'saudade'. When a singer 'se queixa' in a song, they are expressing the deepest parts of the human condition. This cultural layer gives the word a depth that simple translations like 'to complain' fail to capture. It is a word that spans from the mundane annoyance of a cold soup to the existential cry of a broken heart.

Naquela canção de Fado, a fadista queixa-se do seu destino cruel.

The most frequent mistake learners make with queixar-se is forgetting the reflexive pronoun. In English, you simply 'complain.' In Portuguese, you must 'complain yourself.' Saying "Eu queixo do frio" is grammatically incorrect and sounds incomplete to a native ear. It must be "Eu me queixo" (Brazil) or "Queixo-me" (Portugal). This reflexive nature is non-negotiable for the verb to function correctly in its standard meaning.

The Missing Pronoun: Mistake: 'Ele queixa muito.' Correct: 'Ele se queixa muito.' Always include the pronoun that matches the subject.

Another common error involves the preposition. Many learners try to use 'sobre' (about) because it's a direct translation of the English 'complain about.' While 'sobre' is occasionally used, the standard, most natural preposition is de. Using 'queixar-se sobre' isn't always 'wrong' in a technical sense, but 'queixar-se de' is what a native speaker would say 99% of the time. For example, "queixar-se sobre a comida" sounds like a literal translation, whereas "queixar-se da comida" (de + a) sounds authentic.

Errado: Eu queixo sobre o barulho.
Correto: Eu queixo-me do barulho.

Confusion between 'queixar-se' and 'reclamar' is also prevalent. While often interchangeable, 'reclamar' is more active and demanding. If you are at a restaurant and your steak is cold, you 'reclama' to the waiter to get a new one. If you are just telling your friend that the restaurant was bad, you 'queixa-se'. Learners often use 'queixar-se' when they should be using 'reclamar' for a specific, goal-oriented complaint. Using 'queixar-se' in a situation where you should be demanding your rights can make you sound passive.

Preposition Pitfalls: Remember that 'de' contracts with articles: de + o = do, de + a = da. 'Queixo-me do chefe' (I complain about the boss).

Cuidado: Não confundas 'queixa' (the complaint) com 'queijo' (cheese)!

Finally, watch out for the conjugation in the third person plural. It is 'queixam-se', not 'queixam'. The nasal 'm' at the end of 'queixam' can sometimes lead learners to drop the 'se' because it feels phonetically repetitive, but it is essential for the meaning. Practicing the flow of 'queixam-se' or 'se queixam' will help avoid this stutter in your speech.

Portuguese has a rich vocabulary for expressing discontent, and choosing the right word can significantly change the tone of your message. While queixar-se is the standard for 'complaining' or 'moaning,' it has several close relatives. The most common alternative is reclamar. Reclamar is often more assertive; it implies that you want something to change. If you 'reclamar' about a bill, you want the price lowered. If you 'queixar-se' about a bill, you are just expressing that it's expensive.

Queixar-se vs. Reclamar: Queixar-se: Often more passive or related to physical pain/feelings.
Reclamar: More active, demanding, or related to service/rights.

Another interesting alternative is resmungar, which means 'to grumble' or 'to mutter.' This is used when someone is complaining under their breath or in a grumpy, low-level way. It's less about the content of the complaint and more about the annoying way it's being delivered. Then there is lamentar, which means 'to lament' or 'to regret.' This is much more formal and emotional, often used for serious situations like 'lamentar a morte de alguém' (to lament someone's death).

Ele passa o dia a resmungar pelos cantos, mas nunca se queixa diretamente a ninguém.

Translation: He spends the day grumbling in the corners, but never complains directly to anyone.

Formal Alternatives: Manifestar desagrado: To express displeasure (very formal).
Impugnar: To challenge or contest (legal context).

For physical pain, 'queixar-se' is almost synonymous with 'sentir' (to feel) in a clinical context. "O paciente queixa-se de tonturas" is similar to "O paciente sente tonturas," but 'queixa-se' implies that the patient is reporting the feeling to the doctor. Understanding these distinctions allows you to move from a basic level of Portuguese to a more sophisticated, context-aware level of communication. Whether you are grumbling about the rain or filing a police report, choosing the right word makes all the difference.

Em vez de te queixares, tenta encontrar uma solução!

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"O signatário vem por este meio queixar-se da conduta do funcionário."

Neutral

"Ela queixou-se ao professor sobre a nota do exame."

Informal

"Ele está sempre a queixar-se por nada!"

Child friendly

"Não te queixes, o dodói vai passar logo."

Slang

"Para de mimimi e para de se queixar!"

Fun Fact

The origin 'quaxare' is onomatopoeic, mimicking the sound 'co-ax' that frogs make. So, when you are complaining in Portuguese, you are etymologically 'croaking'!

Pronunciation Guide

UK /kejˈʃaɾ/

US /kejˈʃaʁ/

The stress is on the last syllable: quei-XAR.

Rhymes With

deixar baixar faixar rebaixar encaixar desencaixar amanhecer falar

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'quei' as 'kwee'. It should be 'kay'.
Pronouncing 'x' as 'ks' or 'z'. In this word, it is always 'sh'.
Forgetting to nasalize the 'm' in 'queixam-se'.
Misplacing the stress on the first syllable.
Pronouncing the 'u' in 'quei'. The 'u' is silent after 'q'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

The word is easy to recognize in text once you know the 'sh' sound for 'x'.

Writing 4/5

Reflexive pronoun placement and the preposition 'de' can be tricky for beginners.

Speaking 3/5

The 'ei' and 'x' sounds require some practice to sound natural.

Listening 3/5

In rapid speech, the reflexive pronouns often blend into the verb.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

dor sentir falar mal problema

Learn Next

reclamar lamentar saúde médico justiça

Advanced

impugnar lastimar querelar vociferar exprobrar

Grammar to Know

Reflexive Pronoun Placement (Proclisis)

Em frases negativas, o pronome vem antes do verbo: 'Não **me** queixo'.

Reflexive Pronoun Placement (Enclisis)

Em frases afirmativas (Portugal), o pronome vem depois: 'Queixo-**me**'.

Prepositional Contraction

Queixar-se de + o = Queixar-se **do**.

Personal Infinitive

O motivo de eles **se queixarem** é o barulho.

Subjunctive Mood

Espero que ele não **se queixe** da viagem.

Examples by Level

Eu me queixo do frio.

I complain about the cold.

Simple present tense with 'me' (reflexive pronoun).

Ela queixa-se de dor.

She complains of pain.

European Portuguese placement of 'se' after the verb.

Você se queixa da sopa?

Do you complain about the soup?

Question form in Brazilian Portuguese.

Nós nos queixamos muito.

We complain a lot.

'Nos' is the reflexive pronoun for 'nós'.

O menino queixa-se da escola.

The boy complains about school.

Third person singular conjugation.

Eles se queixam do barulho.

They complain about the noise.

Third person plural conjugation.

Não me queixo de nada.

I don't complain about anything.

Negative sentence: 'me' moves before the verb.

Onde posso apresentar uma queixa?

Where can I file a complaint?

'Queixa' is the noun form.

Ontem, ele se queixou do trânsito.

Yesterday, he complained about the traffic.

Pretérito Perfeito (simple past).

Eles queixaram-se ao gerente ontem.

They complained to the manager yesterday.

Past tense with 'a' (to) indicating the recipient.

Por que você se queixa tanto?

Why do you complain so much?

Use of 'tanto' as an adverb.

A Maria nunca se queixa de cansaço.

Maria never complains of tiredness.

Use of 'nunca' (never) triggers proclisis (pronoun before verb).

Nós vamos queixar-nos do serviço.

We are going to complain about the service.

Future with 'ir' + infinitive.

O paciente queixou-se de tonturas.

The patient complained of dizziness.

Medical context usage.

Tu te queixas sempre da mesma coisa.

You always complain about the same thing.

Second person singular (informal).

Ela não se queixou do preço.

She didn't complain about the price.

Negative past tense.

Antigamente, o meu avô queixava-se da política.

In the past, my grandfather used to complain about politics.

Pretérito Imperfeito for habitual actions.

Se eu fosse tu, não me queixaria tanto.

If I were you, I wouldn't complain so much.

Conditional tense usage.

Ele queixa-se de que o salário é baixo.

He complains that the salary is low.

Usage with a 'que' clause.

Apesar de tudo, ela raramente se queixa.

Despite everything, she rarely complains.

Adverbial phrase 'Apesar de tudo'.

Vou queixar-me à polícia se o barulho continuar.

I will complain to the police if the noise continues.

Conditional 'if' clause with future intent.

Ninguém se queixou durante a longa viagem.

No one complained during the long trip.

Indefinite pronoun 'Ninguém' triggers proclisis.

Eles queixam-se de não terem tempo livre.

They complain about not having free time.

Preposition 'de' + personal infinitive.

É melhor que te queixes agora do que depois.

It's better that you complain now than later.

Present subjunctive after 'É melhor que'.

Duvido que ele se queixe sem uma boa razão.

I doubt he would complain without a good reason.

Subjunctive after 'Duvido que'.

O sindicato queixou-se das condições de trabalho.

The union complained about the working conditions.

Collective noun 'sindicato'.

Se eles se tivessem queixado, teríamos ajudado.

If they had complained, we would have helped.

Past perfect subjunctive in a conditional sentence.

A empresa queixou-se formalmente da concorrência desleal.

The company formally complained about unfair competition.

Formal/Legal context.

Mesmo que te queixes, as regras não vão mudar.

Even if you complain, the rules won't change.

Concessive clause with 'Mesmo que'.

Ela queixava-se amargamente da sua sorte na vida.

She used to complain bitterly about her luck in life.

Use of the adverb 'amargamente'.

Não há nada de que nos possamos queixar.

There is nothing we can complain about.

Relative clause with 'de que'.

O autor queixa-se da falta de liberdade de expressão.

The author complains about the lack of freedom of expression.

Intellectual/Political context.

A vizinhança queixa-se amiúde do estado das ruas.

The neighborhood frequently complains about the state of the streets.

Use of the formal adverb 'amiúde' (frequently).

É imperativo que se queixem quando os direitos são violados.

It is imperative that they complain when rights are violated.

Subjunctive mood for necessity.

O fado é a alma de um povo que se queixa cantando.

Fado is the soul of a people who complain by singing.

Poetic/Cultural definition.

Queixar-se-iam eles se soubessem a verdade?

Would they complain if they knew the truth?

Mesoclisis (formal/literary pronoun placement).

A estrutura do edifício queixa-se sob o peso da neve.

The building's structure 'complains' under the weight of the snow.

Metaphorical use for inanimate objects.

Não obstante as melhorias, muitos continuam a queixar-se.

Notwithstanding the improvements, many continue to complain.

Formal connector 'Não obstante'.

A queixa-crime foi arquivada por falta de provas.

The criminal complaint was dismissed for lack of evidence.

Specific legal term 'queixa-crime'.

Ele queixa-se, mas no fundo gosta da atenção que recebe.

He complains, but deep down he likes the attention he gets.

Psychological nuance.

Nas entrelinhas do poema, o autor queixa-se da finitude humana.

Between the lines of the poem, the author complains about human finitude.

Literary analysis context.

A plebe queixava-se veementemente da tirania do monarca.

The commoners complained vehemently about the monarch's tyranny.

Archaic/Historical vocabulary ('plebe', 'monarca').

Pudesse eu não me queixar, e seria o homem mais feliz.

Could I but not complain, and I would be the happiest man.

Inverted conditional structure (literary).

O réu queixou-se de cerceamento de defesa durante o julgamento.

The defendant complained of defense restriction during the trial.

Technical legal terminology ('cerceamento de defesa').

A terra queixa-se da incúria dos homens que a habitam.

The earth complains of the negligence of the men who inhabit it.

Personification of nature.

Queixumes vãos não resolvem os dilemas da existência.

Vain laments do not solve the dilemmas of existence.

Use of 'queixume' as a noun for philosophical lament.

A melodia queixa-se em acordes menores, evocando a saudade.

The melody complains in minor chords, evoking saudade.

Aesthetic/Musical description.

Não há quem se não queixe de um fado tão adverso.

There is no one who does not complain of such an adverse fate.

Complex double negative structure (classical Portuguese).

Common Collocations

queixar-se de dor

queixar-se amargamente

apresentar queixa

queixar-se do barulho

queixar-se da sorte

queixar-se ao gerente

sem se queixar

ter de que se queixar

queixar-se de cansaço

queixar-se por tudo e por nada

Common Phrases

Não me queixo.

— A common response to 'How are you?', meaning 'I can't complain' or 'Things are fine'.

— Como vai tudo? — Não me queixo.

De que se queixa?

— The standard question a doctor asks to find out your symptoms.

Bom dia, sente-se. De que se queixa hoje?

Ir queixar-se ao bispo.

— An idiom meaning 'to complain to someone who can't help' or 'your complaint is useless'.

Se não gostas, podes ir queixar-te ao bispo!

Queixar-se de barriga cheia.

— To complain despite having everything you need; to be ungrateful.

Tens um bom emprego e uma casa linda; estás a queixar-te de barriga cheia.

Apresentar queixa-crime.

— To file a formal criminal charge with the authorities.

Ela decidiu apresentar queixa-crime contra o vizinho.

Viver a queixar-se.

— To be a habitual complainer; to live in a state of constant dissatisfaction.

Ele vive a queixar-se da vida, mas não faz nada para mudar.

Queixar-se da vida.

— To lament one's general situation or destiny.

Passamos a tarde a beber café e a queixar-nos da vida.

Dar queixas de alguém.

— To report someone's bad behavior, often to an authority figure.

O professor deu queixas do aluno à direção.

Não tens queixa?

— Asking if someone has any problems or issues with a service or situation.

— Gostaste do hotel? — Sim, não tenho queixa nenhuma.

Queixar-se ao muro.

— To complain to someone who isn't listening (similar to 'talking to a brick wall').

Falar contigo é como queixar-se ao muro.

Often Confused With

queixar vs queijo

A1 learners often confuse the pronunciation. 'Queijo' is cheese; 'queixo' is chin or the root of the verb to complain.

queixar vs reclamar

Reclamar is for demanding action; queixar-se is for expressing the feeling of dissatisfaction.

queixar vs queixo

The noun 'queixo' means 'chin'. The verb form 'eu queixo-me' comes from the same root but refers to the action of complaining.

Idioms & Expressions

"Queixar-se de barriga cheia"

— To complain when one has no real reason to, usually because they are actually in a privileged position.

Ele tem saúde e dinheiro, mas queixa-se de barriga cheia.

informal

"Ir queixar-se ao bispo"

— To tell someone that their complaints are useless and you don't care about them.

Se achas que o trabalho é muito, vai queixar-te ao bispo!

informal/sarcastic

"Quem se queixa, os seus males afugenta"

— A proverb suggesting that voicing one's problems helps to relieve them (similar to 'a problem shared is a problem halved').

Diz-me o que sentes, pois quem se queixa, os seus males afugenta.

proverbial

"Queixar-se da sorte"

— To blame one's misfortune on fate or bad luck.

Em vez de queixares-te da sorte, trabalha mais.

neutral

"Pôr-se em queixumes"

— To start whining or lamenting in an annoying or repetitive way.

Lá vem ele outra vez pôr-se em queixumes sobre o frio.

informal

"Não ter de que se queixar"

— To be in a perfectly good situation where no complaints are justified.

Com este sol e esta praia, não temos de que nos queixar.

neutral

"Fazer queixa"

— To report someone officially or tell on someone.

A Maria fez queixa do irmão à mãe.

neutral

"Queixar-se ao vento"

— To complain in vain, where no one hears or cares.

Sem ninguém para o ajudar, ele queixava-se ao vento.

literary

"Cair em queixumes"

— To sink into a state of constant lamentation.

Depois de perder o emprego, ele caiu em queixumes profundos.

literary

"Dar queixa"

— To file a formal report, usually with the police.

Se ele te ameaçar outra vez, tens de dar queixa.

neutral

Easily Confused

queixar vs Reclamar

Both mean 'to complain'.

Reclamar is more assertive and used for external services. Queixar-se is more internal, emotional, or physical.

Reclamei da conta, mas queixei-me da dor de cabeça.

queixar vs Lamentar

Both express sadness/dissatisfaction.

Lamentar is closer to 'regret' or 'mourn'. Queixar-se is closer to 'moan' or 'report a problem'.

Lamento a sua perda, mas queixo-me do serviço.

queixar vs Resmungar

Both involve complaining.

Resmungar is specifically 'muttering' or 'grumbling' under your breath.

Ele resmungou algo enquanto se queixava do frio.

queixar vs Protestar

Both involve disagreement.

Protestar is more public and formal; queixar-se is more personal.

Eles protestaram na rua e queixaram-se ao governo.

queixar vs Lastimar

Both express sorrow.

Lastimar is more formal and poetic, meaning to feel pity or to regret deeply.

Lastimo que te queixes tanto da vida.

Sentence Patterns

Eu me queixo de [noun].

Eu me queixo do frio.

[Subject] se queixou de [noun] ontem.

Ele se queixou de dor ontem.

Se [subject] [subjunctive], não se queixaria.

Se ele tivesse dinheiro, não se queixaria.

É provável que [subject] se queixe de [noun].

É provável que ela se queixe do barulho.

Não obstante [noun], [subject] queixa-se de [noun].

Não obstante o aumento, o povo queixa-se da inflação.

[Subject] queixa-se de que [clause].

O diretor queixa-se de que os lucros baixaram.

Haverá quem se não queixe de [noun]?

Haverá quem se não queixe de tamanha injustiça?

Queixar-se-iam eles se [subjunctive]?

Queixar-se-iam eles se o fado fosse outro?

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Very high in medical and social contexts; high in legal contexts.

Common Mistakes

Eu queixo do frio. → Eu me queixo do frio.
You forgot the reflexive pronoun 'me'. 'Queixar-se' is always reflexive in this context.
Ela se queixa sobre o barulho. → Ela se queixa do barulho.
While 'sobre' is sometimes understood, the standard preposition is 'de' (which becomes 'do' before 'barulho').
Não queixo-me. → Não me queixo.
In negative sentences, the pronoun must come before the verb (proclisis).
Eles queixam do preço. → Eles se queixam do preço.
Again, the reflexive pronoun 'se' is missing for the third person plural.
Eu queixei de dor ontem. → Eu me queixei de dor ontem.
The past tense also requires the reflexive pronoun.

Tips

Pronoun Agreement

Always make sure your reflexive pronoun matches your subject. 'Eu' goes with 'me', 'tu' with 'te', 'ele/ela/você' with 'se', and 'nós' with 'nos'. This is the most common area for errors.

Preposition 'de'

Don't forget that 'de' must contract with the article. 'Queixo-me de a comida' is wrong; it must be 'Queixo-me **da** comida'.

The Complaints Book

In Portugal, if you are truly unhappy with a service, ask for the 'Livro de Reclamações'. While the verb is 'reclamar', the resulting entry is often referred to as a 'queixa formal'.

Medical Standard

If you go to a hospital in a Portuguese-speaking country, memorize 'Queixo-me de...' followed by your symptom. It's the fastest way to get the doctor's attention.

Formal Reports

When writing an official report, use 'apresentar uma queixa contra [person/entity]'. This sounds much more professional than just using the verb.

Nasal Sounds

Pay attention to the ending '-am' in 'queixam-se'. It is a nasal sound that can be hard to hear if you aren't listening for it.

Queixar vs Reclamar

Use 'queixar-se' for things that hurt or make you sad. Use 'reclamar' for things that are wrong and need fixing by someone else.

The 'X' Sound

Remember the 'X' in queixar is like a 'SH' sound. Imagine someone saying 'SHHH' because they are tired of hearing you complain.

Poetic Usage

In literature, 'queixar-se' can describe the sound of the wind or waves. It adds a beautiful, melancholic touch to your descriptions.

Bonding

A little bit of 'queixar-se' about the heat or the price of coffee can actually help you make friends in a Portuguese café!

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'QUestion' you have about a 'SHARP' (xar) pain. You 'quei-xar' (complain) about it.

Visual Association

Imagine a person wearing a 'KAY' (quei) brand shirt, 'SH'ushing (x) someone while pointing at a 'JAR' (ar) of sour pickles they are complaining about.

Word Web

dor médico reclamação voz tristeza polícia barulho vizinho

Challenge

Try to write three sentences about things you usually complain about, using 'Eu me queixo de...' for each one.

Word Origin

Derived from the Vulgar Latin 'quaxare', which originally meant 'to croak' (like a frog). Over time, the meaning shifted from the sound of a frog to the sound of human complaining or lamenting.

Original meaning: To croak or make a hoarse sound.

Romance (Latin root).

Cultural Context

Be careful not to sound like a 'queixoso' (a person who complains too much), as it can be seen as a negative personality trait if overdone in social settings.

English speakers often use 'complain' for everything. In Portuguese, remember to use 'reclamar' for services and 'queixar-se' for feelings/pain.

Amália Rodrigues' Fados often contain themes of 'queixa'. Fernando Pessoa's poetry frequently explores existential 'queixumes'. The 'Livro de Reclamações' is a cultural icon of consumer rights in Portugal.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

At the doctor

Queixo-me de dores no estômago.
Desde quando se queixa?
Onde é que se queixa?
Não me queixo de mais nada.

At work

Ele queixa-se do excesso de trabalho.
Não te queixes do teu chefe.
Vou queixar-me ao RH.
Ninguém se queixa das férias.

At home

Para de te queixar da comida!
As crianças queixam-se do sono.
Ela queixa-se que a casa está suja.
Eu não me queixo da minha família.

In the city

Todos se queixam do trânsito.
Vou apresentar uma queixa na polícia.
Eles queixam-se do preço do bilhete.
Podes queixar-te na câmara municipal.

Socializing

Não me queixo, a vida corre bem.
Ele queixa-se de barriga cheia.
Não vale a pena queixar-se.
Ela queixa-se por tudo e por nada.

Conversation Starters

"De que é que as pessoas mais se queixam no teu país?"

"Costumas queixar-te quando o serviço num restaurante é mau?"

"Quando foi a última vez que te queixaste de uma dor física?"

"Achas que as pessoas se queixam demasiado nas redes sociais?"

"Se pudesses queixar-te de uma coisa no teu trabalho, o que seria?"

Journal Prompts

Escreve sobre um dia em que nada correu bem, mas decidiste não te queixar.

Descreve uma situação em que tiveste de apresentar uma queixa formal.

Pensas que queixar-se ajuda a resolver problemas ou apenas cria mais negatividade?

Quais são as três coisas de que nunca te queixas, aconteça o que acontecer?

Imagina que és um médico. Escreve um diálogo onde um paciente se queixa de vários sintomas estranhos.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, in its standard meaning of 'to complain,' it is a pronominal verb. You must use reflexive pronouns like 'me,' 'se,' or 'nos.' For example, 'Eu me queixo' is correct, but 'Eu queixo' is not. The only exception is in very specific archaic or literary contexts, but for modern learners, treat it as 100% reflexive.

'Queixar-se' is often used for physical pain ('queixar-se de dor') or personal feelings. 'Reclamar' is more common when you want to demand a solution, like complaining about a late delivery or a bad product in a shop. Think of 'queixar-se' as 'moaning' and 'reclamar' as 'filing a complaint' or 'demanding rights'.

The most common and natural preposition is 'de'. You 'queixa-se de algo' (complain about something). For example: 'Ela queixa-se do (de + o) barulho'. You can also use 'a' to indicate who you are complaining to: 'Queixei-me ao (a + o) diretor'.

You can say 'Não tenho queixas' (using the noun) or 'Não me queixo' (using the verb). Both are very common. 'Não me queixo' is a typical, polite way to say you are doing fine when someone asks how you are.

Yes, metaphorically. You can say 'A mesa queixa-se' if it creaks under weight. This is a poetic way to describe inanimate objects making noise under stress, common in literature or descriptive writing.

It means to 'file a formal complaint.' This is used in legal, police, or official administrative contexts. If someone steals your wallet, you go to the police to 'apresentar uma queixa'. It's more formal than just 'queixar-se' to a friend.

Yes, it is used in Brazil, but 'reclamar' is slightly more common in everyday informal speech. However, in medical contexts or when talking about formal complaints, 'queixar-se' and 'queixa' are still the standard terms in Brazil.

A 'queixoso' is a person who complains. In a legal context, it refers to the plaintiff or the person who filed the charge. In a social context, it can be a slightly negative term for someone who is always moaning or unhappy.

Etymologically, they are related to the idea of the jaw/mouth area. 'Queixo' is the jaw/chin, and 'queixar' involves using that part of the body to voice grievances. However, in modern usage, they are distinct words: one is a body part and the other is an action.

It's a regular -ar verb. For 'I complained', say 'Eu me queixei' (Brazil) or 'Queixei-me' (Portugal). For 'They complained', say 'Eles se queixaram' or 'Queixaram-se'. Remember to keep the reflexive pronoun!