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A2 verb 12 min read

reclamar

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips reclamar in 30 Seconds

Explanation reclamar in your Level:

At the A1 level, you should focus on the most basic meaning of 'reclamar', which is 'to complain'. In your early Portuguese studies, you will use this verb to talk about simple likes and dislikes. For example, you might say 'Eu reclamo do calor' (I complain about the heat) or 'Ele reclama da comida' (He complains about the food). The key thing to remember at this stage is the preposition 'de'. Whenever you want to say what you are complaining about, you must use 'de'. If the word that follows is masculine (like 'o café'), 'de' becomes 'do'. If it's feminine (like 'a sopa'), 'de' becomes 'da'. This is a regular -AR verb, so its conjugation follows the same pattern as 'falar' or 'estudar'. Practice saying 'Eu reclamo', 'Você reclama', and 'Nós reclamamos'. At this level, don't worry about the 'demand' or 'claim' meanings; just use it to express that something is not making you happy. It is a very useful word for traveling, especially if you need to tell a hotel or restaurant that something is wrong. Just remember to keep your sentences simple: Subject + Reclamar + De + Object. This will help you build confidence in expressing your needs and frustrations in a clear, understandable way. You might also hear parents saying 'Não reclame!' to their children, which is a great way to learn the imperative form early on.

At the A2 level, you can start expanding how you use 'reclamar' by adding more detail to your sentences. You should now be able to specify *who* you are complaining to by using the preposition 'com'. For instance, 'Eu vou reclamar com o gerente' (I am going to complain to the manager). This allows you to handle more complex social interactions. You will also encounter the noun form 'reclamação' (complaint) more often. At this level, you should understand that 'reclamar' is a versatile verb for daily life. You might use it in the past tense to describe a bad experience: 'Ontem, eu reclamei do barulho' (Yesterday, I complained about the noise). You should also be aware of the adjective 'reclamão' (someone who complains a lot), which is a common way to describe a person's personality. This level is also where you start to see the difference between 'reclamar' and 'queixar-se'. While they are similar, 'reclamar' is more about the act of protesting something external, while 'queixar-se' is often used for physical sensations or personal feelings. Start practicing 'reclamar' in different tenses (Present, Pretérito Perfeito, and Future) to become more fluent. You can also start using it with adverbs, like 'reclamar muito' (to complain a lot) or 'reclamar sempre' (to always complain). This will make your Portuguese sound more natural and expressive.

At the B1 level, you should be comfortable with the dual meaning of 'reclamar'. While you already know it as 'to complain', you will now start to see it used as 'to claim' or 'to demand' in more formal or written contexts. For example, 'O passageiro reclamou a bagagem perdida' (The passenger claimed the lost luggage). Notice that in this 'claim' sense, the preposition 'de' is usually absent. This is a crucial distinction for intermediate learners. You should also be able to use 'reclamar' in the subjunctive mood to express desires or hypothetical situations: 'Eu espero que ele não reclame do preço' (I hope he doesn't complain about the price). At this level, you can also start using the verb in more idiomatic ways, such as 'reclamar de barriga cheia' (to complain when you have no reason to). You should also be aware of the reflexive synonym 'queixar-se' and when it might be more appropriate, especially in more formal or literary speech. Your vocabulary should also include related words like 'reclamante' (the person making a claim or complaint). Understanding the nuances between 'reclamar de algo' and 'reclamar algo' is a hallmark of the B1 level. You are moving beyond simple daily interactions and starting to understand how the verb functions in professional and legal environments. Try to read short news articles or customer service policies to see how the word is used in these more structured settings.

At the B2 level, you should have a nuanced understanding of 'reclamar' across various registers. You can use it fluently in debates, formal letters, and complex social situations. You understand that while 'reclamar' is common, using 'reivindicar' might be more appropriate in a political or labor context to sound more professional. You should also be familiar with the use of 'reclamar' in literary contexts where it can mean 'to call out' or 'to require'. For example, 'A pátria reclama o sacrifício de seus filhos' (The homeland demands the sacrifice of its children). This usage is much more elevated and formal. At B2, you should also be able to handle the passive voice or impersonal constructions involving 'reclamar', such as 'Reclama-se muito da falta de segurança' (There is much complaining about the lack of security). You should also be aware of regional differences in usage between Brazil and Portugal, such as the 'Livro de Reclamações' in Portugal. Your ability to use 'reclamar' should now include the ability to modulate your tone—knowing when the verb sounds confrontational and when it sounds like a justified assertion of rights. You can also use it in complex sentence structures with multiple clauses: 'Embora ele tenha o direito de reclamar, ele preferiu ficar calado para evitar conflitos' (Although he has the right to complain, he preferred to remain silent to avoid conflicts). This level of sophistication allows you to express not just the act of complaining, but the strategy and context behind it.

At the C1 level, your command of 'reclamar' is near-native. You understand the subtle emotional and legal weights the word carries in different Lusophone cultures. You can distinguish between 'reclamar de' (to complain about), 'reclamar com' (to complain to), 'reclamar contra' (to protest against), and the transitive 'reclamar' (to demand/claim). You are also familiar with the etymological roots of the word (re-clamare, to cry out again) and how this history informs its modern usage in both legal and common speech. At this level, you can appreciate the use of 'reclamar' in classical Portuguese literature, where it may be used to describe the soul's longing or a natural necessity. You should also be able to use the word in high-level professional environments, such as during a contract negotiation or a legal dispute, without sounding overly aggressive or informal. You understand the 'Reclamação Trabalhista' (labor claim) in a legal sense and can navigate the documentation associated with it. Your use of synonyms like 'protestar', 'reivindicar', 'impugnar', or 'exigir' is precise and context-dependent. You can also identify and use the word in ironic or sarcastic contexts, which requires a deep understanding of cultural tone. For a C1 learner, 'reclamar' is no longer just a verb, but a multi-faceted tool for navigating the complexities of law, social dynamics, and personal expression in the Portuguese-speaking world.

At the C2 level, you possess a masterly grasp of 'reclamar', using it with the same ease and nuance as a highly educated native speaker. You can use the word in any context, from the most informal slang-filled conversation to the most rigorous academic or legal discourse. You are aware of the most obscure meanings of the verb, such as its use in certain technical or archaic contexts where it might mean 'to call back' (like a bird call in hunting). Your ability to use 'reclamar' in rhetorical devices, poetry, or persuasive speaking is fully developed. You understand how the word interacts with other complex grammatical structures, such as the personal infinitive or the future subjunctive, in long, sophisticated sentences. You can analyze the socio-linguistic implications of the word, such as how the act of 'reclamar' reflects certain cultural attitudes toward authority and consumer rights in different Portuguese-speaking countries. You are also capable of translating the word into English (or other languages) while capturing all its subtle connotations—knowing exactly when 'reclamar' should be 'complain', 'claim', 'demand', 'protest', or 'require'. At this level, your understanding of the word is holistic, encompassing its grammar, its history, its cultural impact, and its vast range of synonyms and antonyms. You can use 'reclamar' not just to communicate, but to influence, to argue, and to create art.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

reclamar in 30 Seconds

Reclamar is a high-frequency Portuguese verb primarily meaning 'to complain' about something or to someone.
It can also mean 'to claim' or 'to demand' in formal, legal, or administrative contexts.
The preposition 'de' is usually required when expressing a complaint (reclamar de algo).
It is a regular -AR verb, making its conjugation predictable for learners of all levels.

The Portuguese verb reclamar is a fascinating linguistic tool that bridges the gap between everyday frustration and formal legal demands. At its core, the word serves two primary functions: to express dissatisfaction (to complain) and to assert a right or demand something back (to claim). For an English speaker, the most common pitfall is assuming it strictly means 'to reclaim' in the sense of getting something back, but in daily life in Lisbon or Rio de Janeiro, you will hear it used far more frequently to describe someone who is unhappy with a service, the weather, or a situation. It is a high-frequency verb because it captures a fundamental human activity: the act of voicing discontent. Whether you are at a restaurant with cold soup or at a government office seeking your legal rights, this verb is your primary instrument for advocacy and expression.

Everyday Dissatisfaction: This is the most frequent usage. When someone is 'reclamando de tudo' (complaining about everything), they are expressing a general sense of annoyance. It is synonymous with the English 'to grumble' or 'to gripe' in informal contexts, but remains the standard word for formal complaints as well.

Pare de reclamar do frio e vista um casaco.

Translation: Stop complaining about the cold and put on a coat.

The second layer of meaning is more formal and aligns with the English 'to claim' or 'to demand.' In legal or administrative contexts, to 'reclamar um direito' is not to whine about a right, but to formally assert it. This distinction is crucial for learners; the presence of the preposition 'de' usually signals the 'complain' meaning, while the direct object usually signals the 'claim' meaning. Understanding this subtle grammatical shift allows you to navigate both a casual conversation with a friend and a formal letter to a landlord. The word carries an inherent energy of action—it is not a passive feeling of sadness, but an active vocalization of what one believes should be different.

Formal Assertion: Used when demanding something that is rightfully yours. For example, 'reclamar a posse de uma terra' (to claim ownership of a land). This usage is common in news reports, legal documents, and historical texts.

O cliente decidiu reclamar seus direitos no tribunal.

Translation: The client decided to claim his rights in court.

Culturally, 'reclamar' can sometimes carry a negative connotation of being a 'reclamão' (a whiner). In many Lusophone cultures, there is a fine line between standing up for one's rights and being perceived as someone who is never satisfied. However, in the realm of consumer protection, 'reclamar' is seen as a civic duty. Platforms like 'Reclame Aqui' in Brazil are massive hubs where citizens voice their issues with companies, showing that the word is central to modern commerce and social accountability. It is a word of power, used by the frustrated and the legally entitled alike.

The 'Reclamão' Archetype: In social settings, calling someone a 'reclamão' (masculine) or 'reclamona' (feminine) implies they complain excessively about trivial matters. It's a common label for that one friend who is never happy with the food, the music, or the company.

Não seja um reclamão; a festa está ótima!

Eles foram ao Procon reclamar da cobrança indevida.

Mastering reclamar requires an understanding of its prepositional relationships. This verb is rarely used in isolation; it usually points toward an object of frustration or a person being addressed. The most common structure is 'reclamar de' + [something/someone]. This construction translates directly to 'complaining about.' For example, if you are unhappy with your salary, you would say 'Eu reclamo do meu salário.' Note the contraction of 'de' + 'o' into 'do'. This pattern is consistent across all tenses and is the bread and butter of daily Portuguese conversation.

The 'De' Preposition: Used to identify the source of dissatisfaction. Without this preposition, the sentence often changes meaning to 'claiming' or 'demanding'.

Ela vive reclamando da vizinha barulhenta.

Translation: She is always complaining about the noisy neighbor.

Another important structure is 'reclamar com' + [person]. This indicates to whom the complaint is being directed. If you have a problem with a product, you don't just complain 'about' it; you complain 'to' the manager. In Portuguese, this is 'reclamar com o gerente.' This highlights the interactive nature of the verb. It's an exchange. You can combine these: 'Vou reclamar com o garçom da comida fria' (I will complain to the waiter about the cold food). This double-prepositional usage is common and helps provide full context to the situation.

The 'Com' Preposition: Identifies the recipient of the complaint. This is usually the person who has the power to fix the situation or the person responsible for the grievance.

Ninguém reclamou com o diretor sobre o atraso.

Translation: No one complained to the director about the delay.

In more formal or literary contexts, 'reclamar' acts as a transitive direct verb meaning to claim, demand, or require. In this case, no preposition follows the verb. For example, 'O dever reclama nossa atenção' (Duty requires our attention). This usage is less common in spoken Brazilian Portuguese but appears frequently in Portuguese literature and legal codes. It suggests a necessity or a rightful demand that cannot be ignored. Understanding this version of the verb is what separates intermediate learners from advanced speakers who can navigate formal texts.

Transitive Direct Usage: Meaning 'to demand' or 'to require'. Example: 'A situação reclama medidas urgentes' (The situation demands urgent measures).

O herdeiro veio reclamar sua herança.

Translation: The heir came to claim his inheritance.

Não adianta reclamar do leite derramado.

Translation: It's no use complaining over spilled milk.

You will hear reclamar everywhere from the dinner table to the nightly news. In a household setting, it's the word parents use when their children are being picky: 'Pare de reclamar da comida!' (Stop complaining about the food!). It's also the word friends use to describe their work life: 'Ele só sabe reclamar do chefe' (He only knows how to complain about the boss). In these contexts, it's informal, slightly emotive, and very common. It reflects the social habit of venting frustrations as a way of bonding or seeking sympathy.

Customer Service: This is perhaps the most formal public use. If you go to a store in Brazil or Portugal to return a broken item, you are there to 'fazer uma reclamação' (make a complaint). The verb form is 'reclamar'.

Se o serviço for ruim, você deve reclamar.

Translation: If the service is bad, you should complain.

In the business world, 'reclamar' is used in logistics and supply chain management. When a shipment is missing or damaged, a company will 'reclamar a mercadoria' or 'reclamar o prejuízo'. Here, it loses its emotional 'whining' quality and becomes a professional assertion of loss. You'll see this in emails, invoices, and contracts. Similarly, in sports, players often 'reclamam com o juiz' (complain to the referee) after a foul. This is a universal sight in Brazilian football, where the verb describes the animated gestures and vocal protests seen on the pitch.

In Sports: Refers to the act of protesting a referee's decision. It's often associated with yellow cards for 'reclamação excessiva' (excessive complaining).

O jogador recebeu um cartão por reclamar com o árbitro.

Translation: The player received a card for complaining to the referee.

In legal news, you will hear it when groups 'reclamam igualdade' (demand equality) or 'reclamam justiça' (demand justice). In these instances, the word is elevated. It's no longer about a cold meal; it's about social imperatives. This dual nature—from the trivial to the profound—makes 'reclamar' one of the most versatile and essential verbs in the Portuguese language. It covers the entire spectrum of human dissatisfaction and the subsequent push for change or restitution.

Social Movements: When activists 'reclamam por melhorias', they are advocating for better conditions. It's a proactive, loud demand for progress.

Os manifestantes foram às ruas reclamar por seus direitos.

Não adianta nada reclamar se você não faz nada para mudar.

The most glaring mistake English speakers make is assuming reclamar only means 'to reclaim.' While they share a Latin root, 'reclaim' usually implies retrieving something lost (like land or a lost item), whereas 'reclamar' is much broader and most often means 'to complain.' If you tell a Portuguese speaker 'Eu quero reclamar meu casaco' (I want to reclaim my coat), they might understand you in a legalistic way, but it sounds very stiff. Usually, you would just say 'Eu quero pegar meu casaco de volta.' Using 'reclamar' when you simply mean 'get back' is a common 'false friend' error.

The 'Reclaim' Trap: Avoid using 'reclamar' for simple acts of picking something up. Use it only when there is a dispute or a formal demand involved.

Mistake: Vou reclamar minha mala no aeroporto. (Incorrect if just picking it up)
Correct: Vou pegar minha mala no aeroporto.

Another error involves prepositions. Many learners forget the 'de' when complaining about something. Saying 'Eu reclamo o barulho' sounds like you are demanding the noise (claiming it as yours), which is the opposite of what you want. You must say 'Eu reclamo DO barulho.' This small prepositional change is the difference between being a victim of noise and being a collector of noise. Similarly, don't confuse 'reclamar com' (to complain to) with 'reclamar para.' While 'para' is sometimes heard, 'com' is the standard for interpersonal complaints.

Missing Prepositions: Always remember: Reclamar + DE + Thing = Complain about Thing. Reclamar + Thing = Claim/Demand Thing.

Mistake: Eu me reclamo do tempo. (Incorrect reflexive)
Correct: Eu reclamo do tempo. / Eu me queixo do tempo.

Finally, watch the tone. In English, 'complaining' can sometimes be a soft word (grumbling). In Portuguese, 'reclamar' can sound quite strong and confrontational depending on the context. If you want to sound more polite, you might use 'gostaria de fazer uma observação' (I'd like to make an observation) or 'há um pequeno problema' (there is a small problem). Jumping straight to 'quero reclamar' in a shop can set a very aggressive tone for the interaction. Use it when you mean business, but consider softer alternatives for minor social inconveniences.

Aggressive Tone: Using 'reclamar' can be perceived as an escalation. In service contexts, it's often better to start with softer phrasing before 'reclamando' formally.

Ele reclamou tanto que o gerente deu um desconto.

Não reclame de barriga cheia! (Don't complain when you have everything you need!)

While reclamar is the most common verb for expressing dissatisfaction, Portuguese offers a rich palette of synonyms that allow for more precise emotional coloring. The most direct alternative is queixar-se. This verb is always reflexive (me queixo, se queixa) and often feels slightly more personal or physical. You 'reclamar' about a service, but you 'se queixa' of a headache or a personal grievance. 'Queixar-se' also sounds a bit more formal or literary in certain contexts, whereas 'reclamar' is the workhorse of the spoken language.

Reclamar vs. Queixar-se: Reclamar is more active and external; Queixar-se is more reflexive and can be used for internal states (pain, feelings).

Ele se queixa de dores nas costas todos os dias.

Translation: He complains of back pain every day.

For more specific types of complaining, you might use resmungar or mormurar. 'Resmungar' is the perfect equivalent for 'to mutter' or 'to grumble'—it implies complaining under one's breath or in an annoying, repetitive way. Children often 'resmungam' when told to do chores. On the other end of the spectrum, protestar is used when the complaint is formal, public, or political. You protest against a law or a decision. While 'reclamar' can be a protest, 'protestar' is more structured and often collective.

Resmungar: To grumble or mumble complaints. Usually carries a connotation of being annoying or childish.
Protestar: To protest. Used for formal, often public, opposition to something.

O velho resmungava enquanto limpava o quintal.

Translation: The old man was grumbling while cleaning the yard.

In the context of the 'claim' meaning of 'reclamar', the most common alternative is reivindicar. This is a powerful, formal word. Workers 'reivindicam' better wages; a group 'reivindica' responsibility for an action. It carries much more weight than 'reclamar' and is the standard term in news and politics for demanding rights or recognition. Finally, exigir (to demand) is even stronger, implying an authoritative requirement. Choosing between these depends entirely on the level of intensity and the context of the demand.

Reivindicar: To claim or demand rights formally. Very common in political and labor contexts.
Exigir: To demand. Implies a non-negotiable requirement.

Eles reivindicam a autoria do projeto.

Translation: They claim authorship of the project.

A lei exige que todos usem cinto de segurança.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The word 'reclame' in Portuguese used to be a common word for 'advertisement' because an ad 'calls out' to the customer again and again.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ʁɛ.klɐ.ˈmaɾ/

US /he.kla.ˈmaχ/

The stress is on the final syllable: re-cla-MAR.

Rhymes With

falar amar andar lugar mar olhar pensar chegar

Common Errors

Pronouncing the initial 'R' like the English 'R' in 'red'.
Stressing the second syllable instead of the last.
Making the 'e' sound too much like 'ee' in 'see'.
Over-enunciating the final 'r' in a Brazilian context.
Merging the 'cl' sound too much.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize but dual meaning requires context.

Writing 3/5

Requires correct preposition use (de, com, contra).

Speaking 2/5

Regular conjugation makes it easy to say.

Listening 2/5

High frequency makes it easy to hear.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

falar querer gerente coisa de

Learn Next

queixar-se reivindicar protestar exigir direitos

Advanced

impugnar pleitear postular exprobrar

Grammar to Know

Contraction of 'de' with articles

Reclamar + de + o = Reclamar do.

Regular -AR verb conjugation

Eu reclamo, Tu reclamas, Ele reclama...

Subjunctive use for wishes

Eu quero que você não reclame.

Transitive Direct vs Indirect

Reclamar algo (claim) vs Reclamar de algo (complain).

Imperative forms

Reclame! (Formal) / Reclama! (Informal).

Examples by Level

Eu reclamo do calor.

I complain about the heat.

Uses 'reclamar de' + masculine noun (o calor).

Você reclama muito.

You complain a lot.

Simple present tense of a regular -AR verb.

Ela não reclama da comida.

She doesn't complain about the food.

Negative sentence structure.

Nós reclamamos do barulho.

We complain about the noise.

First person plural conjugation.

Eles reclamam do preço.

They complain about the price.

Third person plural conjugation.

Não reclame!

Don't complain!

Imperative form (negative).

O café está frio, vou reclamar.

The coffee is cold, I'm going to complain.

Future with 'ir' + infinitive.

Por que você reclama?

Why do you complain?

Interrogative sentence.

Eu vou reclamar com o gerente.

I'm going to complain to the manager.

Use of 'com' to indicate the person being addressed.

Ela reclamou do serviço ontem.

She complained about the service yesterday.

Pretérito Perfeito (past tense).

O cliente está reclamando agora.

The customer is complaining now.

Present continuous (estar + gerund).

Nós nunca reclamamos de nada.

We never complain about anything.

Use of the adverb 'nunca'.

Ele é um homem muito reclamão.

He is a very whiny man.

Use of the noun/adjective 'reclamão'.

Você já reclamou com ela?

Have you already complained to her?

Use of 'já' in a question.

Eu fiz uma reclamação formal.

I made a formal complaint.

Noun form 'reclamação'.

Eles reclamaram da falta de água.

They complained about the lack of water.

Pretérito Perfeito plural.

O passageiro reclamou sua mala perdida.

The passenger claimed his lost luggage.

Transitive usage meaning 'to claim'.

Espero que você não reclame do hotel.

I hope you don't complain about the hotel.

Present Subjunctive after 'espero que'.

Se eu fosse você, reclamaria logo.

If I were you, I would complain right away.

Conditional tense.

Ela reclamou os seus direitos na justiça.

She claimed her rights in court.

Formal usage of 'claim'.

Pare de reclamar de barriga cheia!

Stop complaining when you have everything you need!

Common idiomatic expression.

O reclamante entrou na sala.

The claimant entered the room.

Noun 'reclamante' (the one who claims).

Nós reclamávamos sempre que o trem atrasava.

We used to complain whenever the train was late.

Pretérito Imperfeito (habitual past).

É justo reclamar quando algo está errado.

It is fair to complain when something is wrong.

Infinitive as a subject.

A situação reclama uma intervenção imediata.

The situation demands immediate intervention.

Formal usage meaning 'to demand/require'.

Duvido que eles reclamem da nova lei.

I doubt they will complain about the new law.

Subjunctive after 'duvido que'.

Reclama-se muito da burocracia neste país.

There is much complaining about bureaucracy in this country.

Impersonal 'se' construction.

O autor reclamou a propriedade intelectual da obra.

The author claimed the intellectual property of the work.

Legal/Formal context.

Apesar de estar cansado, ele não reclamou.

Despite being tired, he didn't complain.

Concessive clause ('apesar de').

Não havia ninguém com quem reclamar.

There was no one to complain to.

Relative clause with preposition.

A natureza reclama seus espaços originais.

Nature reclaims its original spaces.

Poetic/Metaphorical usage.

Ele teria reclamado se soubesse a verdade.

He would have complained if he knew the truth.

Conditional perfect with past subjunctive.

O dever reclama a nossa presença constante.

Duty demands our constant presence.

Elevated, abstract usage.

A empresa foi alvo de inúmeras reclamações trabalhistas.

The company was the target of numerous labor claims.

Specific legal terminology.

Não se deve reclamar contra o destino.

One should not protest against fate.

Philosophical/Formal usage with 'contra'.

O herdeiro tardou a reclamar o que lhe era devido.

The heir was slow to claim what was due to him.

Sophisticated sentence structure.

A obra reclama uma análise mais profunda.

The work requires a deeper analysis.

Academic/Critical context.

Ele reclamou, posto que sem muita convicção.

He complained, albeit without much conviction.

Use of the conjunction 'posto que'.

O governo deve atender ao que a sociedade reclama.

The government must attend to what society demands.

Political/Civic context.

A alma reclama por um momento de paz.

The soul cries out for a moment of peace.

Metaphorical/Literary usage.

A escassez de recursos reclama uma gestão parcimoniosa.

The scarcity of resources demands parsimonious management.

High-level administrative vocabulary.

O tribunal indeferiu o pedido de reclamar a posse.

The court denied the request to claim possession.

Technical legal jargon.

Nada obsta a que o interessado venha reclamar seus bens.

Nothing prevents the interested party from coming to claim their assets.

Formal legal construction 'Nada obsta a que'.

O poeta reclama a volta da amada em seus versos.

The poet calls for the return of his beloved in his verses.

Classical literary theme.

A complexidade da matéria reclama cautela.

The complexity of the matter demands caution.

Abstract transitive usage.

Reclama-se a autoria, mas faltam provas cabais.

Authorship is claimed, but conclusive evidence is lacking.

Impersonal construction with technical vocabulary.

O clamor popular reclama por mudanças estruturais.

The popular outcry calls for structural changes.

Sociopolitical discourse.

Ainda que reclamasse, debalde seria o seu esforço.

Even if he complained, his effort would be in vain.

Archaic/Literary 'debalde' and past subjunctive.

Common Collocations

reclamar de tudo

reclamar com o gerente

reclamar os direitos

reclamar do barulho

reclamar do preço

reclamar do tempo

reclamar por justiça

reclamar a posse

viver reclamando

reclamar em voz alta

Common Phrases

Não adianta reclamar.

— It's no use complaining; complaining won't change the situation.

O ônibus já partiu, não adianta reclamar.

Só sabe reclamar.

— Used to describe someone who does nothing but voice dissatisfaction.

Ele não ajuda em nada, só sabe reclamar.

Direito de reclamar.

— The legal or moral entitlement to voice a grievance.

Todo consumidor tem o direito de reclamar.

Reclamar de barriga cheia.

— To complain about minor things when one is actually in a good position.

Você tem um ótimo emprego, está reclamando de barriga cheia.

Sem reclamar.

— Doing something without voicing any protest or annoyance.

Ele fez todo o trabalho sem reclamar.

Vou reclamar meus direitos.

— A declaration that one will seek legal or formal restitution.

Se não me pagarem, vou reclamar meus direitos.

Pare de reclamar!

— A direct command to stop voicing dissatisfaction.

Pare de reclamar do frio!

Reclamação formal.

— An official complaint submitted to an authority or company.

Abri uma reclamação formal contra a operadora.

Livro de reclamações.

— A physical book required in Portuguese establishments for customers to log complaints.

Peça o livro de reclamações se não estiver satisfeito.

Reclamar com razão.

— To have a valid and justified reason for complaining.

Desta vez, ela está reclamando com razão.

Often Confused With

reclamar vs reclaim

English 'reclaim' is more specific about getting property back; 'reclamar' is usually 'complain'.

reclamar vs queixar-se

Queixar-se is always reflexive and often more personal.

reclamar vs clamar

Clamar means to cry out or plead, often in a religious or desperate sense.

Idioms & Expressions

"Reclamar de barriga cheia"

— To complain despite being in a privileged or comfortable situation.

Você viaja o mundo e reclama do cansaço? Está reclamando de barriga cheia!

informal

"Quem não chora, não mama"

— Equivalent to 'the squeaky wheel gets the grease'; you must complain to get what you want.

Vá reclamar o desconto; quem não chora, não mama.

slang/informal

"Reclamar do leite derramado"

— To complain about something that has already happened and cannot be changed.

O erro foi feito, agora não adianta reclamar do leite derramado.

neutral

"Cão que ladra não morde"

— Often used for people who complain a lot but don't actually take action.

Ele reclama muito, mas cão que ladra não morde.

informal

"Bater boca"

— To argue or complain loudly and aggressively with someone.

Eles ficaram batendo boca por causa do estacionamento.

informal

"Soltar os cachorros"

— To complain very angrily at someone.

A patroa soltou os cachorros quando viu o atraso.

informal

"Pôr a boca no trombone"

— To complain publicly or expose a scandal.

Se não resolverem o problema, vou pôr a boca no trombone.

informal

"Fazer um escarcéu"

— To make a huge scene or a very loud complaint about something minor.

Ela fez um escarcéu porque o café estava morno.

informal

"Dar um chilique"

— To have a sudden tantrum or fit of complaining.

O cliente deu um chilique na loja.

slang

"Engolir sapo"

— To accept something unpleasant without complaining.

Às vezes no trabalho temos que engolir sapos.

informal

Easily Confused

reclamar vs reclamar

Looks like 'reclaim'.

Usually means to complain, whereas reclaim means to recover something.

Eu reclamo do hotel (I complain about the hotel).

reclamar vs reivindicar

Both can mean 'to claim'.

Reivindicar is more formal and specific to rights or authorship.

Eles reivindicam a vitória.

reclamar vs queixar-se

Both mean 'to complain'.

Queixar-se is reflexive and often used for symptoms or feelings.

Me queixo de dor.

reclamar vs protestar

Both involve dissatisfaction.

Protestar is usually a formal or public act of opposition.

Protestar contra a guerra.

reclamar vs exigir

Both involve asking for something.

Exigir is a strong demand from a position of authority or right.

Exijo respeito.

Sentence Patterns

Eu reclamo de [coisa].

Eu reclamo do frio.

Vou reclamar com [pessoa].

Vou reclamar com o professor.

Ele reclamou [objeto] (claim).

Ele reclamou a mala.

Não adianta reclamar de [coisa].

Não adianta reclamar da chuva.

Espero que não reclamem.

Espero que não reclamem do preço.

A situação reclama [necessidade].

A situação reclama atenção.

Reclamar contra [injustiça].

Reclamar contra o sistema.

Nada obsta a que se reclame.

Nada obsta a que se reclame o valor.

Word Family

Nouns

reclamação

reclamante

reclame

Verbs

reclamar

Adjectives

reclamador

reclamão

reclamona

clamar

proclamar

exclamar

aclamar

declamação

How to Use It

frequency

Very high in both spoken and written Portuguese.

Common Mistakes

Eu me reclamo do barulho. → Eu reclamo do barulho.
Reclamar is not a reflexive verb. You are thinking of 'queixar-se'.
Vou reclamar minha mala (when just picking it up). → Vou pegar minha mala.
Reclamar implies a dispute or formal claim. Use 'pegar' for simple retrieval.
Eu reclamo o café frio. → Eu reclamo do café frio.
Without 'de', it sounds like you are demanding the cold coffee as your property.
Reclamar para o gerente. → Reclamar com o gerente.
While 'para' is used in some regions, 'com' is the standard for complaining 'to' someone.
Ele reclamou que a sopa é ruim. → Ele reclamou de que a sopa estava ruim.
While 'reclamou que' is common in speech, 'reclamou de que' is technically more correct for complaints.

Tips

Watch the Preposition

Remember: Reclamar DE (complain about), Reclamar COM (complain to), Reclamar [Direct Object] (claim).

Brazilian Consumerism

In Brazil, don't be afraid to 'reclamar' if a service is bad. It's culturally accepted to stand up for your rights.

The Noun Form

Learn 'reclamação'. You will see it on signs, websites, and in legal documents constantly.

End with Strength

The 'MAR' at the end should be the strongest part of the word. Don't let it fade out.

Softening Complaints

Instead of 'Vou reclamar', try 'Houve um equívoco' (There was a mistake) to be more polite initially.

Spilled Milk

Use 'Não adianta reclamar do leite derramado' to tell someone to move on from a past mistake.

Legal Context

In a courtroom, 'reclamar' is the standard verb for making a claim against an employer.

Don't be a Reclamão

If someone calls you a 'reclamão', take it as a hint to find something positive to say!

Formal Letters

Use 'Apresentar uma reclamação' instead of just 'reclamar' in very formal letters.

Listen for 'De'

If you hear 'reclamar' without 'de', pay close attention; the meaning might be 'claiming' something important.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'RE-CLAIM' center. If you lost something, you go there to RECLAMAR it. If they don't have it, you RECLAMAR (complain) about the service!

Visual Association

Imagine a person holding a megaphone (clamar) and shouting 'RE!' (again) because they are unhappy with their soup.

Word Web

complain claim demand voice protest rights dissatisfaction gerente

Challenge

Try to spend a whole day without 'reclamar' about anything in Portuguese. If you do, write down what you were going to say using 'reclamar de'!

Word Origin

From the Latin 'reclamare', which is composed of 're-' (again/back) and 'clamare' (to cry out or shout).

Original meaning: To cry out against something or to call back.

Romance (Latin root).

Cultural Context

Be careful when using 'reclamar' with friends; calling someone a 'reclamão' can be seen as an insult if not said jokingly.

English speakers often use 'complain' for everything. Portuguese speakers might switch to 'queixar-se' for personal feelings or 'reivindicar' for rights.

Reclame Aqui (Brazilian consumer platform) Livro de Reclamações (Portuguese legal requirement) Various Fado songs where the singer 'reclama' against their destiny.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Restaurant

A comida está fria.
Vou reclamar com o garçom.
Não quero reclamar, mas...
Onde está o gerente?

Work

Reclamar do salário.
Reclamar da carga horária.
Fazer uma reclamação ao RH.
Ele reclama de tudo no escritório.

Legal/Rights

Reclamar meus direitos.
Reclamar a herança.
Entrar com uma reclamação.
Justiça reclama ação.

Family

Pare de reclamar!
Crianças reclamam muito.
Não reclame da sua irmã.
Reclamar do jantar.

Customer Service

Quero o livro de reclamações.
Vou reclamar no site.
Minha reclamação não foi ouvida.
Protocolo de reclamação.

Conversation Starters

"Do que você mais reclama no seu trabalho?"

"Você já teve que reclamar com um gerente em um restaurante?"

"Você se considera um 'reclamão' ou uma pessoa tranquila?"

"Qual foi a última vez que você teve razão ao reclamar de algo?"

"Você acha que os brasileiros reclamam mais do que os americanos?"

Journal Prompts

Escreva sobre uma situação em que você teve que reclamar de um serviço ruim.

Você acha que reclamar ajuda a resolver problemas ou apenas cria mais estresse?

Descreva uma pessoa que você conhece que vive reclamando de tudo.

Se você pudesse reclamar de uma lei no seu país, qual seria?

Reflita sobre a frase: 'Não adianta reclamar do leite derramado'.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No. When it means 'to complain about', it needs 'de'. When it means 'to claim/demand' a right or object, it is a direct transitive verb and does not need 'de'.

A 'reclamão' (feminine: 'reclamona') is a person who complains excessively about everything. It's often used as a lighthearted or slightly annoyed label for a friend or family member.

Technically yes (reclamar bagagem), but it sounds formal. Most people would say 'pegar a mala' or use 'recolha de bagagem' for the area.

It is neutral. However, in service contexts, saying 'Quero reclamar' can be seen as aggressive. Using 'Gostaria de fazer uma observação' is softer.

Reclamar is more active and external (protesting a situation). Queixar-se is reflexive and often internal (feeling pain or personal grievance).

It's a regular verb: Eu reclamei, você reclamou, nós reclamamos, eles reclamaram.

Yes, it is very common in Portugal, especially in the context of the 'Livro de Reclamações' (Complaints Book).

In its etymological roots, yes, but in modern Portuguese, 'gritar' is used for shouting. 'Reclamar' implies the content of the shout is a complaint.

It is a famous Brazilian website where consumers post complaints about companies. It has made the verb 'reclamar' very central to Brazilian consumer culture.

Yes, 'reclamar com um amigo' means to vent or complain to them about something else.