Definition

To express unhappiness or dissatisfaction about something.

Example

She often complains about the noise in the city.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I heard you complain about the noise from the construction site.

Yeah, it’s been really distracting while I’m trying to work.

Have you thought about talking to the landlord about it?

I might, but I feel like they won’t do anything.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Complain → It is formed from "com-" (meaning together) and "plangere" (meaning to strike or lament). The word originally described the act of expressing sorrow or grief together, often in a formal manner.

Memory Tip

Think of people coming 'together' ('com-') to 'lament' ('plangere') about something that troubles them — that's why complain means to express dissatisfaction.

Visually Confused Words