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- pronunciation:
- k
 m
pleIn
- features:
- Word Combinations (verb), Word Explorer
| part of speech: |
intransitive verb |
| inflections: |
complains, complaining, complained |
| definition 1: |
to express dissatisfaction, pain, grief, or other negative feelings.
She complained that the soup was cold.It was strange for the child to complain of a headache.The parents complained to the principal about the school lunches.The miners complained of unsafe conditions in the mines.- synonyms:
- beef, bellyache, bitch, crab, fuss, grouse, grumble, holler, kick, moan, repine
- similar words:
- bemoan, carp, gripe, groan, grouch, lament, murmur, nag, squawk, wail, whine
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| definition 2: |
to express such negative feelings habitually or with inadequate cause.
The doctor found nothing wrong, but she lies in her bed and complains all day.- synonyms:
- carp, gripe, nag, whine
- similar words:
- beef, bellyache, bitch, fuss, groan, grouch, grouse, kick, lament, moan, squawk
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| definition 3: |
in law, to make a formal charge.
The building committee complained to the landlord about the lack of heat in the apartments. |
| related words: |
criticize, mutter, pick, quarrel, rant, remonstrate, scold |
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| derivations: |
complaining (adj.), complainer (n.) |
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