# complaining

/kəmˈpɫeɪnɪŋ/ (US) · /kəmplˈeɪnɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/complaining
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. expressing dissatisfaction

verb · CEFR A2

saying that you are unhappy, annoyed, or not satisfied with a situation.

For teachers: the present participle of 'complain', describing the ongoing expression of resentment, pain, or dissatisfaction.

- Stop complaining about the rain and just take an umbrella.
- The residents have been complaining about the noise levels since the new construction project began last month.

Usage: Often followed by the prepositions 'about' or 'of'.

### 2. the act of making a complaint

noun · CEFR B1

the act of telling someone that something is wrong or bad.

For teachers: the gerund form used as a noun to denote the activity of voicing grievances or formal dissatisfaction.

- Constant complaining won't solve the problem; we need to find a solution.
- The manager noted that the constant complaining from the staff was a symptom of deeper structural issues within the department.

Usage: Commonly functions as the subject or object of a sentence.

## Examples

- He is always complaining about the cold weather.
- The customers were complaining to the manager because their food took over an hour to arrive.
- Despite the long hours and difficult working conditions, the staff continued their duties without complaining, demonstrating a remarkable level of professional resilience.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.