Complained

To express dissatisfaction or unhappiness about something; to voice a grievance or objection. It involves communicating negative feelings, whether verbally or non-verbally, about a situation, person, or object. Complaining often implies a desire for change, improvement, or acknowledgment of the perceived problem. The expression can range from mild grumbling to a formal protest. Complaining can be an instinctive reaction to discomfort or a deliberate strategy to address injustices. However, excessive complaining can lead to negative social perceptions and hinder problem-solving, fostering negativity and undermining the ability to find solutions.

Complained meaning with examples

• The customer complained loudly to the manager about the slow service, demanding a discount on their meal. They cited waiting over an hour for their food and experiencing multiple errors with their order, leading to a frustrating dining experience. They expressed significant dissatisfaction with the staff's attentiveness and the overall quality of the service they received. The patron hoped their complaints would lead to service improvements.
• Despite her friends' suggestions, Sarah frequently complained about her job, focusing on her boss's unfair treatment. She discussed the long hours and lack of recognition repeatedly. She also complained about the limited opportunities for advancement within the company. The frequent negative discussions became a pattern, hindering any possible shift in perspective or finding some way to improve their situation.
• The tenants complained to the landlord about the persistent water leak in the ceiling of the building and the lack of timely repair. They detailed the damage to their property and the disruption to their daily lives as a result of the leak. Their complaints highlighted the landlord's responsibility to maintain the property, calling for immediate action to address the ongoing issue and prevent further inconvenience.
• The child complained incessantly about having to eat his vegetables, making faces at the broccoli and refusing to try even a bite. He listed a range of reasons for disliking them, appealing to his parents for a sugary substitute. This sparked a back-and-forth about the importance of a healthy diet and a possible compromise for a small treat after he finished his meal. They sought to introduce healthier habits.
• During the meeting, several employees complained about the new company policy, citing it as disruptive to their workflow. They also brought up concerns about the potential for decreased productivity as a result. They were openly frustrated with the shift in procedure. This triggered a discussion between the management and the team. This was a necessary adjustment in expectations.