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complaint

B1 noun #36 最常用 13分钟阅读

complaint

前36

At the A1 level, 'complaint' is a word you might use to say something is wrong in a very simple way. You might learn it when talking about shopping or going to a restaurant. It is a noun that means a 'bad report.' For example, if your food is cold, you have a complaint. You can say 'I have a complaint' to a waiter. It is important to know that 'complaint' is the thing you have, and 'complain' is what you do. At this level, just focus on the idea that a complaint is a way to say 'I am not happy with this.' You might see it on a sign in a shop that says 'Complaints.' This is the place where you go if you have a problem with something you bought. It is a very useful word for basic survival English because it helps you ask for help when things are not right. You don't need to know the legal or medical meanings yet. Just think of it as a 'problem report.'

At the A2 level, you can start using 'complaint' in more complete sentences. You should know that it is a countable noun, so you usually say 'a complaint' or 'some complaints.' You can use it with the verb 'make.' For example, 'I want to make a complaint about my room.' This is a very common phrase to use when traveling. You might also learn that people use it to talk about minor health problems, like 'a stomach complaint,' which just means a stomach ache. You are starting to see the word in different places, like in emails or on websites. You should be able to understand a simple sentence like 'The customer made a complaint because the shoes were too small.' You are also learning that there are different ways to complain, but 'complaint' is the most common noun for the situation. It's a step up from just saying 'This is bad' to saying 'I have a formal problem to report.'

At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 'complaint' in a variety of everyday situations. You should know the common collocations like 'lodge a complaint' or 'handle a complaint.' You understand that a complaint can be formal or informal. You can write a simple letter of complaint to a company, explaining what happened and what you want them to do. You also begin to understand the medical meaning more clearly, recognizing that a 'complaint' in a hospital is a symptom. You can distinguish between the noun 'complaint' and the verb 'complain' without making many mistakes. You might also encounter the word in news stories about people being unhappy with government decisions. At this level, you are expected to use the word accurately with prepositions like 'about' and 'against.' You can also use adjectives to describe the complaint, such as 'a common complaint' or 'a serious complaint.'

At the B2 level, you have a strong grasp of the different nuances of 'complaint.' You can use it in professional contexts, such as discussing 'complaint procedures' in a business meeting or 'grounds for complaint' in a legal discussion. You understand that 'complaint' can refer to a formal legal document that starts a lawsuit. You are also aware of more sophisticated synonyms like 'grievance' or 'objection' and can choose the most appropriate word based on the context. You can handle complex sentence structures involving the word, such as 'Despite several complaints from the residents, the construction continued unabated.' You are also familiar with idiomatic uses or common phrases like 'no complaints' as a way of saying everything is fine. Your writing is more formal, and you can draft a detailed letter of complaint that uses persuasive language and follows standard professional conventions.

At the C1 level, you use 'complaint' with precision and stylistic variety. You understand the subtle differences between a 'complaint,' a 'grievance,' and an 'allegation.' You can use the word in academic or highly technical contexts, such as discussing the 'chief complaint' in a medical case study or the 'formal complaint' in a complex civil litigation. You are sensitive to the tone of the word and can use it to convey irony or sarcasm if needed. You are also aware of the cultural implications of complaining in different societies. Your use of collocations is natural and varied, including phrases like 'frivolous complaint,' 'legitimate complaint,' or 'unfounded complaint.' You can analyze the structure of a legal complaint and understand its implications. You are also able to use the word in abstract ways, such as 'the common complaint of the modern age is a lack of time.'

At the C2 level, you have mastered 'complaint' in all its forms and contexts. You can use it with the nuance of a highly educated native speaker. You are familiar with the etymology of the word and how its meaning has evolved over time. You can use it in literary or highly formal writing, employing it in complex metaphorical ways. You understand the legal intricacies of a 'verified complaint' or a 'cross-complaint.' In medical contexts, you understand how 'complaint' fits into the broader diagnostic process. You can navigate the most difficult social situations involving complaints, using language that is both firm and diplomatically sophisticated. You are also able to critique the way complaints are handled in various institutional settings, using a wide range of related vocabulary. For you, 'complaint' is not just a word, but a versatile tool for precise and powerful communication across any domain.

开始练习例句笔记与提示

complaint 30秒了解

A complaint is a noun used to express dissatisfaction or report a problem in social, medical, or legal contexts.
It is a countable noun, meaning you can have one complaint or many complaints, and it often requires an article.
Common verbs used with it include 'make,' 'lodge,' 'file,' and 'handle,' depending on the level of formality required.
In medicine, it refers to a symptom, while in law, it refers to the formal document that begins a lawsuit.

The word complaint is a multifaceted noun that functions as a cornerstone of communication in social, professional, medical, and legal contexts. At its core, a complaint is an expression of dissatisfaction, a formal statement that something is not right, or a report of a problem that requires attention. In daily life, we use this word when we are unhappy with a service we received at a restaurant, a product that arrived broken from an online store, or even the behavior of a neighbor. It represents the bridge between feeling frustrated and taking action to resolve that frustration.

Consumer Context: In the world of business, a complaint is a formal grievance filed by a customer. It serves as a feedback mechanism that allows companies to identify flaws in their operations. When you 'lodge a complaint' with a customer service department, you are officially documenting your unhappiness to seek a remedy, such as a refund or a replacement.

The manager personally addressed the customer's complaint regarding the delayed delivery of the furniture.

Beyond the consumer realm, 'complaint' has a very specific meaning in medicine. Doctors often refer to a patient's 'chief complaint,' which is the primary symptom or health concern that led the person to seek medical help. If you have a persistent cough, that cough is your medical complaint. It is not an expression of anger, but rather a description of a physical ailment.

Medical Usage: In a clinical setting, a complaint is a reported symptom. For example, 'The patient presented with a complaint of severe abdominal pain.' This usage is purely descriptive and lacks the emotional weight of a social complaint.

The doctor noted that the patient's primary complaint was a recurring migraine that lasted for several days.

In the legal world, the word takes on an even more formal tone. A legal complaint is the initial document filed with a court by a plaintiff, outlining the reasons for a lawsuit. It is the formal start of a legal battle, detailing the alleged wrongs committed by the defendant.

The attorney spent the entire afternoon drafting the formal complaint to be filed against the corporation.

Social Context: Informally, a complaint can simply be a 'moan' or a 'grumble.' If someone is constantly talking about how much they dislike their job without taking action, people might say they are full of complaints. In this sense, it can sometimes carry a slightly negative connotation of being a 'whiner.'

Despite the cold weather, the hikers finished the trail without a single complaint.

The HR department received a formal complaint regarding the hostile work environment.

In summary, 'complaint' is a versatile word that scales from a minor personal grumble to a major legal action or a vital medical diagnosis. Its meaning is heavily dependent on the environment in which it is used, but it always involves the identification of a problem that needs to be voiced.

Using the word complaint correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical role as a countable noun and the specific verbs and prepositions that typically accompany it. Because it is a noun, it often follows verbs like 'make,' 'lodge,' 'file,' 'register,' or 'handle.' Each of these verbs carries a slightly different level of formality. 'Make a complaint' is the most common and neutral way to express dissatisfaction. 'Lodge a complaint' or 'file a complaint' sounds more official, often used in legal or corporate settings.

Common Verb Pairings: 1. Lodge a complaint: To officially present a grievance to an authority. 2. File a complaint: To submit a formal document, usually in a legal or administrative context. 3. Handle a complaint: To deal with or resolve a grievance that has been made.

The airline passenger decided to lodge a formal complaint after his luggage was lost for the third time.

Prepositions are equally important. You make a complaint about a situation or product, against a person or organization, or of a symptom (in medical contexts). For example, 'She made a complaint about the noise' vs. 'He filed a complaint against his former employer.' In medical terms, one might say, 'The patient has a complaint of chest pain.'

Prepositional Usage: - Complaint ABOUT: Focuses on the subject of dissatisfaction. - Complaint AGAINST: Focuses on the target of the grievance. - Complaint OF: Used specifically for medical symptoms.

There have been several complaints about the new software update causing system crashes.

Adjectives also help define the nature of the complaint. A 'legitimate complaint' is one that is justified and reasonable. A 'frivolous complaint' is one that lacks merit or is made for trivial reasons. A 'bitter complaint' suggests strong emotional resentment.

The committee dismissed the frivolous complaint as it lacked any supporting evidence.

In professional writing, especially in customer service, you will often see the phrase 'grounds for complaint.' This refers to the specific reasons or justifications that make a complaint valid. For example, 'The delay in shipping gave the customer sufficient grounds for complaint.'

Professional Phrases: - Letter of complaint: A formal written document expressing dissatisfaction. - Complaint procedure: The established steps an organization takes to resolve grievances.

Please follow the company's official complaint procedure if you wish to escalate this matter.

The tenant's complaint was finally resolved after the landlord repaired the leaking roof.

Mastering these patterns allows you to navigate everything from a polite request for a better table at a restaurant to a complex legal dispute with confidence and clarity.

The word complaint is ubiquitous, appearing in a wide array of environments from the mundane to the highly specialized. One of the most common places you will encounter it is in the world of retail and customer service. Every major corporation has a 'complaints department' or a 'complaints desk.' Here, the word is used to categorize customer feedback that is negative. You might hear a customer service representative say, 'I'm sorry to hear that; let me log your complaint.' In this context, it is a professional term for a problem that needs fixing.

Retail Environment: In stores, you might see signs that say 'Customer Complaints' or 'Returns and Complaints.' This is where people go when they are unhappy with a purchase.

The store manager spent most of his morning dealing with a complaint about a faulty electronic device.

Another major arena for this word is the healthcare system. If you go to an Emergency Room, the triage nurse will ask, 'What is your chief complaint today?' This isn't an invitation to talk about the long wait times; they want to know what physical symptom is bothering you. You will hear doctors discussing 'patient complaints' in medical rounds, referring to the symptoms reported by the people under their care.

Medical Environment: In hospitals, 'complaint' is a clinical term. A 'respiratory complaint' means the patient is having trouble breathing. It is a neutral, diagnostic term.

The nurse recorded the patient's complaint of dizziness and nausea in the medical chart.

In the legal and judicial system, 'complaint' is a technical term heard in courtrooms and law offices. Lawyers talk about 'serving a complaint' on a defendant. News reports about lawsuits often start with, 'A complaint was filed today in federal court...' This usage is very formal and refers to the specific legal document that initiates a case.

The legal complaint alleges that the company knowingly sold defective products to the public.

In everyday conversation, you'll hear it in more casual ways. Friends might say, 'I have no complaints,' meaning everything is going well. Or someone might say, 'My only complaint is that the movie was too long.' In these instances, it's a way of expressing a minor criticism or a general state of satisfaction.

Casual Conversation: Common phrases like 'no complaints' or 'can't complain' are used as polite responses to 'How are you?'

'How is your new job?' 'It's great, I have absolutely no complaints so far.'

The city council meeting was dominated by complaints from residents about the new parking regulations.

Whether you are reading a newspaper, watching a medical drama, or simply talking to a friend, the word 'complaint' is a vital part of the English vocabulary that helps us navigate the complexities of human dissatisfaction and problem-solving.

One of the most frequent errors learners make with complaint is confusing it with its verb form, complain. This is a classic noun-versus-verb mistake. Remember: you complain (verb) to someone, but you make a complaint (noun). For example, saying 'I want to complaint' is incorrect; it should be 'I want to complain' or 'I want to make a complaint.'

Noun vs. Verb Confusion: - Incorrect: He filed a complain. - Correct: He filed a complaint. - Incorrect: I need to complaint about the food. - Correct: I need to complain about the food.

The most common mistake is forgetting the 't' at the end when using the word as a noun: complaint.

Another common mistake involves prepositions. Many learners use 'to' when they should use 'about' or 'against.' You make a complaint to a person, but the complaint itself is about a thing. For example, 'I made a complaint to the manager about the service.' Using 'complaint to the service' would be confusing.

Preposition Pitfalls: - Wrong: A complaint for the noise. - Right: A complaint about the noise. - Wrong: My complaint of the company. - Right: My complaint against the company.

Always remember that you make a complaint about a problem, not 'for' a problem.

A third mistake is treating 'complaint' as an uncountable noun. Because it describes a general feeling of dissatisfaction, some learners think it doesn't need 'a' or 'an.' However, 'complaint' is a countable noun. You can have one complaint, two complaints, or many complaints. You must say 'I have a complaint,' not 'I have complaint.'

The customer service desk received several complaints throughout the afternoon, each regarding a different issue.

In medical contexts, learners sometimes confuse 'complaint' with 'disease.' A complaint is a symptom (what the patient feels), while a disease is the diagnosis (what the doctor finds). You wouldn't say 'His complaint is diabetes'; you would say 'His complaint is frequent thirst,' which leads to a diagnosis of diabetes.

Medical Nuance: - Complaint: 'I have a headache.' - Diagnosis: 'You have a tension headache caused by stress.'

The doctor asked for the patient's chief complaint to begin the examination.

After the meeting, there was not a single complaint from the staff about the new policy.

By being mindful of these common pitfalls—noun/verb confusion, preposition choice, countability, and medical nuance—you can use 'complaint' with the precision of a native speaker.

While complaint is a very common word, English offers many synonyms and alternatives that can provide more specific meaning or change the tone of your sentence. Understanding these nuances will help you choose the right word for the right situation.

Formal Alternatives: 1. Grievance: A formal complaint, especially one regarding unfair treatment in a workplace. 2. Objection: An expression of opposition or disagreement with a plan or statement. 3. Protest: A strong expression of disapproval or dissent, often made publicly.

The union representative filed a formal grievance on behalf of the employees.

If you are looking for more informal or descriptive words, you might use 'grumble,' 'moan,' or 'whine.' A 'grumble' is a low, muttered complaint, often about something minor. A 'moan' is a more persistent and perhaps annoying complaint. A 'whine' suggests a high-pitched, childish, or self-pitying way of complaining.

Informal Alternatives: 1. Grumble: A quiet, private complaint. 2. Moan: A persistent, often repetitive complaint. 3. Bellyache: (Slang) To complain loudly and persistently.

He's always having a moan about the weather, even when it's perfectly sunny.

In a medical context, alternatives to 'complaint' include 'ailment,' 'malady,' or 'symptom.' An 'ailment' is a minor illness. A 'malady' is a more serious or chronic disease. A 'symptom' is a specific physical or mental feature that indicates a condition.

The patient's minor ailment was easily treated with over-the-counter medication.

In legal settings, 'allegation' or 'charge' might be used. An 'allegation' is a claim that someone has done something wrong, typically one made without proof. A 'charge' is a formal accusation of a crime.

Legal Nuances: - Complaint: The document that starts a civil case. - Indictment: A formal charge of a serious crime. - Allegation: A statement that someone did something illegal.

The police are investigating the allegation of theft made by the store owner.

The teacher listened to the student's objection regarding the difficult exam questions.

By expanding your vocabulary to include these alternatives, you can express yourself with greater precision and adapt your language to any social or professional environment.

How Formal Is It?

正式

中性

非正式

Child friendly

俚语

趣味小知识

The Latin root is 'complangere', where 'com-' is an intensive prefix and 'plangere' means 'to beat the breast' as a sign of grief. So, originally, a complaint was literally a physical act of mourning.

发音指南

UK /kəmˈpleɪnt/

US /kəmˈpleɪnt/

Second syllable (com-PLAINT)

押韵词

Paint Saint Faint Quaint Restraint Constraint Acquaint Taint

常见错误

Pronouncing it like the verb 'complain' (forgetting the 't').
Stressing the first syllable (COM-plaint).
Pronouncing the 'ai' as a short 'a' sound.
Making the 'm' sound too heavy.
Omitting the 'n' sound before the 't'.

难度评级

阅读 3/5

Easy to recognize in most texts, though legal and medical contexts add complexity.

写作 4/5

Requires knowledge of specific collocations like 'lodge' or 'file' and correct prepositions.

口语 3/5

Common in daily life, but learners must distinguish it from the verb 'complain'.

听力 2/5

Clearly pronounced, though the final 't' can sometimes be soft in fast speech.

接下来学什么

前置知识

Problem Bad Say Doctor Store

接下来学习

Grievance Allegation Resolution Mediation Redress

高级

Litigation Malpractice Ombudsman Indictment Malaise

需要掌握的语法

Noun vs. Verb Distinction

Use 'complain' for the action: 'I complain.' Use 'complaint' for the thing: 'I have a complaint.'

Countability

Always use an article or plural form: 'A complaint was filed' or 'Many complaints were filed.'

Preposition Choice

Use 'about' for the topic: 'A complaint about the food.' Use 'against' for the person: 'A complaint against him.'

Medical 'Of'

In medical English, use 'of' for symptoms: 'A complaint of dizziness.'

Formal Verbs

Use 'lodge' or 'file' for official complaints instead of just 'make'.

按水平分级的例句

I have a complaint about the food.

J'ai une plainte concernant la nourriture.

Use 'a' before 'complaint' because it is a singular noun.

Where is the complaints desk?

Où se trouve le bureau des plaintes ?

'Complaints' is plural here because the desk handles many problems.

She has no complaints today.

Elle n'a pas de plaintes aujourd'hui.

'No complaints' is a common way to say everything is okay.

This is a common complaint.

C'est une plainte courante.

'Common' is an adjective describing the noun 'complaint'.

He made a complaint to the teacher.

Il a fait une plainte au professeur.

The verb 'made' is often used with 'complaint'.

I want to write a complaint.

Je veux écrire une plainte.

You can 'write' a complaint just like you write a letter.

The complaint was about the noise.

La plainte concernait le bruit.

Use 'about' to say what the problem is.

Is there a complaint?

Y a-t-il une plainte ?

This is a simple question form using 'is there'.

The customer made a formal complaint.

Le client a déposé une plainte formelle.

'Formal' makes the complaint sound more serious.

I have a small complaint about the room.

J'ai une petite plainte concernant la chambre.

'Small' suggests the problem is not very big.

There were many complaints about the bus service.

Il y a eu de nombreuses plaintes concernant le service de bus.

Use 'there were' for plural complaints in the past.

He has a minor chest complaint.

Il a une légère affection pulmonaire.

In medical use, 'complaint' can mean a small illness.

Please send your complaint by email.

Veuillez envoyer votre plainte par e-mail.

'Your complaint' shows possession.

They handled the complaint very quickly.

Ils ont traité la plainte très rapidement.

'Handle' means to deal with the problem.

What is your main complaint?

Quelle est votre principale plainte ?

'Main' is similar to 'chief' in a medical context.

I don't have any complaints about the service.

Je n'ai aucune plainte concernant le service.

Use 'any' in negative sentences with plural nouns.

She decided to lodge a complaint against the company.

Elle a décidé de porter plainte contre l'entreprise.

'Lodge' is a more formal verb than 'make'.

The company has a clear complaint procedure.

L'entreprise a une procédure de plainte claire.

'Complaint procedure' is a compound noun.

His chief complaint was a persistent headache.

Sa plainte principale était un mal de tête persistant.

'Chief complaint' is a standard medical term.

There are no grounds for complaint in this case.

Il n'y a aucun motif de plainte dans ce cas.

'Grounds for complaint' means valid reasons to complain.

The manager dealt with the complaint efficiently.

Le manager a traité la plainte avec efficacité.

'Dealt with' is a phrasal verb meaning handled.

I'm writing to register a complaint about the noise.

Je vous écris pour enregistrer une plainte concernant le bruit.

'Register a complaint' is very formal.

The product was returned following a customer complaint.

Le produit a été retourné suite à une plainte d'un client.

'Following' shows the reason for the action.

Most complaints are resolved within twenty-four hours.

La plupart des plaintes sont résolues dans les vingt-quatre heures.

This is a passive sentence ('are resolved').

The legal complaint was filed in the district court.

La plainte judiciaire a été déposée auprès du tribunal de district.

'Legal complaint' refers to a specific document.

The staff's main grievance was the lack of communication.

Le principal grief du personnel était le manque de communication.

'Grievance' is a more formal synonym for complaint.

The airline dismissed the complaint as unfounded.

La compagnie aérienne a rejeté la plainte comme étant non fondée.

'Unfounded' means without evidence or reason.

He has a history of chronic respiratory complaints.

Il a des antécédents de troubles respiratoires chroniques.

Plural 'complaints' here refers to recurring medical issues.

The new policy sparked a wave of complaints from parents.

La nouvelle politique a déclenché une vague de plaintes de la part des parents.

'A wave of' is a metaphor for a large number.

The company's reputation suffered due to numerous complaints.

La réputation de l'entreprise a souffert en raison de nombreuses plaintes.

'Due to' introduces the cause of the problem.

She voiced her complaint during the public hearing.

Elle a exprimé sa plainte lors de l'audience publique.

'Voiced' means expressed out loud.

The ombudsman is responsible for investigating complaints.

Le médiateur est chargé d'enquêter sur les plaintes.

An 'ombudsman' is an official who handles complaints.

The plaintiff's complaint detailed several instances of negligence.

La plainte du plaignant détaillait plusieurs cas de négligence.

'Plaintiff' is the person who makes the legal complaint.

The recurring complaint among the faculty was the lack of funding.

La plainte récurrente parmi le corps professoral était le manque de financement.

'Recurring' means happening again and again.

He made a bitter complaint about the betrayal of trust.

Il a formulé une plainte amère concernant la trahison de la confiance.

'Bitter' describes a complaint full of resentment.

The patient presented with a vague complaint of malaise.

Le patient s'est présenté avec une plainte vague de malaise.

'Malaise' is a general feeling of being unwell.

The board dismissed the complaint on a technicality.

Le conseil a rejeté la plainte pour un vice de forme.

A 'technicality' is a small legal detail.

The documentary highlights the complaints of marginalized groups.

Le documentaire met en lumière les plaintes des groupes marginalisés.

'Marginalized groups' are people with little power.

There is a legitimate complaint to be made regarding the process.

Il y a une plainte légitime à formuler concernant le processus.

'Legitimate' means valid and fair.

The sheer volume of complaints overwhelmed the small office.

Le volume impressionnant de plaintes a submergé le petit bureau.

'Sheer volume' emphasizes the large amount.

The formal complaint served as a catalyst for systemic change.

La plainte formelle a servi de catalyseur pour un changement systémique.

A 'catalyst' is something that causes a big change.

The defendant filed a cross-complaint alleging breach of contract.

Le défendeur a déposé une demande reconventionnelle alléguant une rupture de contrat.

A 'cross-complaint' is a complaint made by the defendant against the plaintiff.

The patient's chief complaint was merely the tip of the iceberg.

La plainte principale du patient n'était que la partie émergée de l'iceberg.

This is an idiom meaning the problem is much bigger than it looks.

The report was a litany of complaints against the administration.

Le rapport était une litanie de plaintes contre l'administration.

A 'litany' is a long, repetitive list.

The ombudsman's report was scathing in its handling of the complaints.

Le rapport du médiateur était cinglant dans son traitement des plaintes.

'Scathing' means very critical and harsh.

The nuances of the legal complaint were lost on the layperson.

Les nuances de la plainte juridique échappaient au profane.

A 'layperson' is someone without professional knowledge.

The complaint was carefully couched in diplomatic language.

La plainte était soigneusement formulée dans un langage diplomatique.

'Couched in' means expressed in a particular way.

The persistent complaints hinted at a deeper malaise within the firm.

Les plaintes persistantes laissaient présager un malaise plus profond au sein de l'entreprise.

'Hinted at' means suggested indirectly.

常见搭配

Lodge a complaint

Formal complaint

Chief complaint

Grounds for complaint

Handle a complaint

Customer complaint

File a complaint

Legitimate complaint

Letter of complaint

Common complaint

常用短语

No complaints

Can't complain

A litany of complaints

Grounds for complaint

A formal complaint

A bitter complaint

Minor complaint

Chief complaint

Handle a complaint

容易混淆的词

complaint vs Complain

This is the verb. You complain (action) about a problem. A complaint (noun) is the statement you make.

complaint vs Compliment

This is the opposite. A compliment is a statement of praise, while a complaint is a statement of dissatisfaction.

complaint vs Compliance

This means following rules or laws. It sounds similar but has a completely different meaning.

习语与表达

"A bone of contention"

A subject or issue over which there is continuing disagreement or complaint.

The new parking rules have become a bone of contention between the neighbors.

Neutral

"Air one's grievances"

To complain publicly about things that one feels are unfair.

The town hall meeting gave residents a chance to air their grievances.

Formal

"Make a mountain out of a molehill"

To complain excessively about a very small or unimportant problem.

It was just a small mistake; don't make a mountain out of a molehill.

Informal

"Cry wolf"

To complain or ask for help when it is not needed, so that people do not believe you when it is.

If you keep complaining about tiny problems, people will think you are crying wolf.

Neutral

"The squeaky wheel gets the grease"

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

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

Informal

"Grin and bear it"

To accept a difficult situation without complaining.

The hike was difficult, but we just had to grin and bear it.

Neutral

"Vent one's spleen"

To express one's anger or complaints in a very forceful and often irrational way.

He used his blog to vent his spleen against the local government.

Informal

"A storm in a teacup"

A lot of unnecessary anger or worry about a small problem.

The whole argument was just a storm in a teacup over a missing pen.

Neutral

"Take it on the chin"

To accept a difficult situation or a complaint against you without reacting negatively.

When the boss criticized his work, he just took it on the chin.

Informal

"Have a chip on one's shoulder"

To have a persistent feeling of being treated unfairly, leading to frequent complaints.

He has a chip on his shoulder about not getting the promotion.

Informal

容易混淆

complaint vs Complain

They share the same root and similar sound.

Complain is a verb (action); complaint is a noun (thing). You cannot 'file a complain' or 'I want to complaint.'

I will complain (verb) to the manager by filing a complaint (noun).

complaint vs Grievance

Both mean a formal expression of dissatisfaction.

A grievance is specifically used for workplace issues or unfair treatment by an authority. A complaint is more general.

The union filed a grievance, but the customer made a complaint.

complaint vs Objection

Both involve disagreement.

An objection is a specific disagreement with a proposal or statement. A complaint is a report of a problem or dissatisfaction.

I have an objection to the plan, but a complaint about the results.

complaint vs Symptom

In medicine, they are used similarly.

A symptom is the objective medical sign. A complaint is the patient's subjective report of that symptom.

The patient's complaint was pain; the symptom was swelling.

complaint vs Allegation

Both are formal claims of wrongdoing.

An allegation is a claim that hasn't been proven yet. A complaint is the formal document or statement reporting the problem.

The legal complaint contained several serious allegations.

句型

I have a complaint about [noun].

I have a complaint about the room.

He made a complaint to [person].

He made a complaint to the manager.

She decided to lodge a formal complaint against [organization].

She decided to lodge a formal complaint against the airline.

There are sufficient grounds for complaint regarding [situation].

There are sufficient grounds for complaint regarding the safety standards.

The complaint detailed several instances of [noun/gerund].

The complaint detailed several instances of professional misconduct.

The complaint was couched in [adjective] language to avoid [noun].

The complaint was couched in diplomatic language to avoid further conflict.

Medical

The patient's chief complaint is [symptom].

The patient's chief complaint is shortness of breath.

Legal

The plaintiff filed a complaint alleging [wrongdoing].

The plaintiff filed a complaint alleging breach of contract.

词族

名词

动词

形容词

如何使用

frequency

Very high in consumer, medical, and legal domains.

常见错误

I want to complaint about the noise. → I want to complain about the noise.
You used the noun 'complaint' where you needed the verb 'complain.'
He filed a complain yesterday. → He filed a complaint yesterday.
You used the verb 'complain' (without the 't') where you needed the noun 'complaint.'
I have complaint about my food. → I have a complaint about my food.
'Complaint' is a countable noun and needs an article like 'a'.
The patient's complaint of diabetes. → The patient's diagnosis was diabetes.
A 'complaint' is a symptom (like thirst), not the name of the disease itself.
A complaint for the bad service. → A complaint about the bad service.
The standard preposition to use with 'complaint' regarding a topic is 'about.'

小贴士

Count Your Complaints

Always remember that 'complaint' is countable. You need 'a' or 'the' before it, or you need to make it plural. Never say 'I have complaint.'

Lodge vs. Make

Use 'lodge a complaint' when you want to sound more formal or official. Use 'make a complaint' for everyday situations like at a restaurant.

Be Specific

When filing a formal complaint, focus on facts. Instead of saying 'The service was bad,' say 'The waiter took 45 minutes to bring our drinks.'

Chief Complaint

If you are at a doctor's office, be ready to state your 'chief complaint' clearly. This helps the doctor diagnose you faster.

The First Step

In law, the 'complaint' is the very first document. Without a complaint, there is no lawsuit. It is the foundation of the case.

No Complaints

Use the phrase 'I have no complaints' to show you are satisfied. It's a great way to end a conversation on a positive note.

Subject Line

In an email, use 'Formal Complaint: [Your Issue]' as the subject line to ensure it gets directed to the right department immediately.

The Final T

Make sure you pronounce the 't' at the end clearly. If you don't, people will think you are using the verb 'complain,' which might change the grammar of your sentence.

Can't Complain

In British English, 'Can't complain' is a standard response to 'How are you?' It doesn't mean life is perfect, just that it's okay.

Check the Surroundings

If you see 'complaint' near words like 'judge' or 'court,' it's a legal document. Near 'doctor,' it's a symptom. Context is key!

记住它

记忆技巧

Think of a 'complaint' as a 'plain' 't' (tea). If your tea is too plain, you might make a complaint to the waiter. The 't' at the end of the word is the 'tea' you are complaining about.

视觉联想

Imagine a person holding a broken toaster in one hand and a formal letter with a giant 'T' on it in the other. The 'T' stands for the 't' at the end of 'complaint'.

Word Web

Problem Dissatisfaction Symptom Lawsuit Grievance Feedback Refund Manager

挑战

Try to use 'complaint' in three different ways today: once about a small problem, once about a health symptom, and once using the phrase 'no complaints'.

词源

The word 'complaint' entered the English language in the late 14th century. It originated from the Old French word 'complainte', which is the feminine past participle of 'complaindre'.

原始含义： In Old French, it meant a lamentation or a formal expression of grief.

It is part of the Romance family of words that entered English after the Norman Conquest, ultimately deriving from Latin.

文化背景

Be aware that in some professional settings, being labeled a 'complainer' can be negative, so it is often better to frame a complaint as 'constructive feedback'.

In the UK, 'can't complain' is a very common, slightly pessimistic way of saying 'I'm okay.'

The 'Chief Complaint' in medical textbooks like Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine. The 'Formal Complaint' in the TV show 'The Office' where characters often file grievances against each other. The concept of the 'Complaints Choir,' a global art project where people sing their everyday complaints.

在生活中练习

真实语境

Customer Service

I want to make a complaint.
How do I lodge a formal complaint?
Who handles customer complaints?
Is there a complaints procedure?

Medical Intake

What is your chief complaint?
The patient has a complaint of...
Any other medical complaints?
Describe your primary complaint.

Legal Proceedings

File a complaint in court.
Serve the complaint on the defendant.
The complaint alleges that...
Amend the original complaint.

Workplace Relations

File a grievance.
A formal complaint against a colleague.
The HR department is investigating the complaint.
Grounds for a workplace complaint.

Casual Socializing

I have no complaints.
Can't complain!
My only complaint is...
Stop your complaining!

对话开场白

"Have you ever had to make a formal complaint about a product you bought?"

"What is the best way for a company to handle a customer's complaint?"

"In your country, do people complain a lot or do they usually 'grin and bear it'?"

"If you were a doctor, how would you ask a patient about their chief complaint?"

"Do you think making a complaint is an effective way to get what you want?"

日记主题

Write about a time you made a complaint that resulted in a positive change.

Describe a situation where you felt you had grounds for complaint but chose to stay silent. Why?

Imagine you are a customer service manager. Write a guide on how to handle difficult complaints.

Reflect on the 'chief complaints' you have had regarding your health this year.

Discuss the role of legal complaints in ensuring justice in your society.

常见问题

10 个问题

It is a noun. The verb form is 'complain.' You make a complaint (noun) when you complain (verb) about something. For example, 'She made a complaint' is correct, but 'She decided to complaint' is incorrect.

No, 'complaint' is a countable noun. You must use the plural form 'complaints' if there is more than one. The correct sentence is 'I have many complaints.' If there is only one, say 'I have a complaint.'

It is the main reason the patient came to the hospital. It is the primary symptom they are feeling, like 'chest pain' or 'a broken leg.' It is the first thing a doctor or nurse will ask about.

A complaint is a general term for dissatisfaction. A grievance is a more formal term, usually used in a workplace to describe a complaint about unfair treatment or a violation of a contract.

In law, a complaint is the first formal document filed in a civil lawsuit. it explains what the plaintiff (the person suing) thinks the defendant (the person being sued) did wrong.

Use 'about' for the topic (complaint about the food), 'against' for the person or company (complaint against the store), and 'to' for the person receiving it (complaint to the manager).

Yes, it is a very common and polite way to say that everything is fine. If someone asks 'How was your stay?', saying 'I have no complaints' means you were happy with everything.

Generally, no. A complaint is by definition an expression of dissatisfaction. However, you can use it in a negative way to mean something positive, like 'I have no complaints,' which means everything is good.

It is a complaint that is not serious, has no real basis in fact, or is made just to cause trouble. Courts and companies often dismiss frivolous complaints quickly.

It means having a valid, logical, or legal reason to make a complaint. If a product is broken when you buy it, you have 'grounds for complaint' against the store.