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Complaint

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. A statement or expression of dissatisfaction or displeasure about something.
2. An official allegation or accusation, typically in a legal or formal context.
3. A medical condition or symptom reported by a patient.
4. A formal expression of grievance or protest, often in the form of a written or verbal communication.

History and Origin

The word “complaint” comes from the Old French compleint, from complaindre (to lament), which itself derives from the Latin complangere (to lament, mourn). It entered English in the 14th century, initially referring to an expression of sorrow or grief. Over time, the word expanded to encompass any expression of dissatisfaction, including formal grievances or protests in legal, social, or commercial settings.

Detailed Explanation

“Complaint” refers to an expression of dissatisfaction, grievance, or unhappiness about something or someone. It can be made informally, such as when someone voices frustration about a service or product, or formally, as in the case of a legal complaint where an individual or group files a formal accusation against another party. Complaints can be made about a variety of issues, such as poor service, defective products, unfair treatment, or medical concerns. In a medical context, a complaint refers to the symptoms or conditions a patient reports. The purpose of a complaint is often to seek redress or improvement in the situation causing the dissatisfaction.

Example Sentences

1. She filed a complaint with the manager about the poor customer service.
2. His complaint was addressed immediately by the customer service team.
3. The employee’s complaint about unfair treatment led to an internal investigation.
4. The doctor asked about the patient’s complaint to understand their symptoms.
5. After the complaint was made, the company offered a refund to the dissatisfied customer.
6. The neighbors submitted a formal complaint about the noise from the party.
7. The teacher listened patiently to the student’s complaint about the homework.
8. The company has a procedure in place for handling customer complaints.
9. His complaint about the product’s quality was resolved by offering a replacement.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Grievance – A complaint, often formal, about unfair treatment or a wrong.
2. Protest – A formal expression of objection or dissatisfaction, often public.
3. Allegation – A claim or assertion, often one made in a formal setting, that something is true.
4. Objection – An expression of disapproval or concern about something.
5. Criticism – An expression of disapproval or analysis of something’s flaws.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Claim – An assertion of a right, often in a legal context, similar to a complaint.
2. Appeal – A formal request for a review or reconsideration, often made after a complaint is not resolved.
3. Protest – A statement or action expressing strong disapproval, often in opposition to something.
4. Discontent – A feeling of unhappiness or dissatisfaction, which may lead to a complaint.
5. Petition – A formal written request, often signed by many, expressing dissatisfaction or a request for change.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Lament – An expression of grief or sorrow, often leading to a complaint.
2. Whining – A continuous or persistent complaint, often considered annoying.
3. Objection – A formal protest or complaint, typically in a legal or procedural context.
4. Protestation – An expression of protest or objection, often in response to something perceived as wrong.
5. Reproach – A mild expression of criticism or disappointment, sometimes resembling a complaint.

Antonyms

1. Praise
2. Approval
3. Contentment
4. Satisfaction
5. Compliment