Definitions

complain

[kuhm-pleyn] / kəmˈpleɪn /

VERB

grumble about

Synonyms

STRONGEST

accuse criticize denounce disagree fret gripe grumble lament moan object oppose protest

STRONG

ascribe attack beef bellyache bemoan bewail bitch carp cavil charge contravene defy demur deplore deprecate differ disapprove dissent expostulate fuss gainsay grieve groan grouse growl impute indict lay nag refute remonstrate repine reproach snivel wail whimper whine yammer

WEAK

find fault kick up a fuss look askance make a fuss sound off take exception to

Antonyms

STRONGEST

accept agree aid approve compliment concur consent help laud please praise soothe

STRONG

assent be happy defend delight endorse exonerate give in gloat go along protect ratify retreat sanction support surrender

WEAK

applaud be content commend recommend

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Complain about handballs and offsides given with VAR, then complain when VAR isn't there to give handballs and offsides.

From BBC • Feb. 8, 2025

Okay, got it: Complain, but don't do it the wrong way.

From Salon • Apr. 23, 2022

After all, it’s what they do: Complain incessantly about the poor level of public services, while taking steps to make them even poorer.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 2, 2022

Complain if you want about big money in the art world, but sometimes it’s not so bad to have the third-richest person on Earth footing your bills.

From New York Times • Sep. 30, 2021

“I try to maximize my rest so that I can be at my best for my education, and what does she do? Complain, complain, complain.”

From "George" by Alex Gino

Vocabulary lists containing complain

"The Railway Train" by Emily Dickinson

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Shiloh

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Sarah, Plain and Tall

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