Definition
to complain (about sthg, to sbdy): to criticize, to find fault with (something, to somebody)
To complain is usually followed by about or of:
Luna always complains about the smell in the bathroom, but despite all her talk, she doesn't do anything about it.
Kevin Connors complained about the bad working conditions in the factory.
a complaint: a protest, an accusation, a criticism, a problem
His only complaint about the restaurant: the service was terrible.
to file a complaint to officially register, log, report a criticism
Pronunciation examples
UK: I made a complaint about the choice of the music.
US: You're always complaining about your problems!
- "He complained of "intense pancake syndrome", "lazy eyebrows" and a "chocolate mistake"."
- "Handle each complaint in a courteous and professional manner and to the client's satisfaction."
- "-The way the complaint is handled will determine if the customer will return or not."
- "To help us better deal with your complaint, please choose from the following menu"
- "Bruno : Brian, it's not good business to give vouchers to people without a legitimate complaint."
- "All of them reacted very positively and there were no complaints."
- "And there have been no complaints at all!"
- "You wisely modified the settings on PhilipBot's personality console from "Insufferable" to "Tolerable", which has led to far fewer complaints from SusieBot."
- "Act to solve all complaints and problems to the customer's satisfaction."
Still unsure of the best way to use 'Complain'? Improve your English thanks to our online English lessons. We offer a free test as well as a free level assessment!
What our users say:
Test your English with Gymglish today and get a free level assessment
Absolutely free - no strings attached.