complain
Translation
to complain, to grumble, to moan
Examples
He complained about the bad service.
He complained about the bad service.
She complained to the manager.
She complained to the manager.
They complained that the room was too cold.
They complained that the room was too cold.
Grammar Patterns
((about sth.)) to express dissatisfaction about (sth.) He complained about the bad service.
((to sb.)) to direct a complaint to (sb.) She complained to the manager.
((that ...)) to state in a complaint that... They complained that the room was too cold.
Similar Words
Synonyms: grumble, protest, moan; Antonyms: praise, compliment
Etymology
From Old French 'complaindre' (to lament), from Latin 'com-' (together) + 'plangere' (to lament).
Memory Tips
Think of someone who has a 'plain' or clear problem and is 'com'ing to tell you about it.