ENGLISH
REFERENCE

moaning

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈmoʊnɪŋ// UK //mˈəʊnɪŋ// moan·ing

adj. making a long, low sound because of pain or sadness. It can also describe someone who complains a lot in an annoying way.

adj. characterised by a low, prolonged sound expressive of physical or mental suffering; frequently describes persistent, petulant complaining. Often used as a participial adjective before a noun.


SIMPLE

I woke up to the sound of the moaning wind.

CONTEXTUAL

The moaning patient was finally given some medicine to help him rest through the night.

COMPLEX

The film was criticized for its moaning protagonist, whose constant grievances about his privileged life eventually alienated the audience.

Synonyms
Usage

Often follows a linking verb like 'sound' or 'be', or precedes a noun to describe a person or sound.

Pitfall

He is moaning about the weather always.He is always moaning about the weather.When used as a continuous verb, the frequency adverb 'always' should come before the main verb.

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