When discussing dissatisfaction, expressing discomfort, or raising concerns, the word complain” naturally comes to mind. It is one of the most commonly used words in both casual and formal conversations, particularly when people are reacting to experiences they find unpleasant or unfair. Understanding the verb form of “complain” is essential for anyone who wants to express grievances clearly and appropriately in English. While the word seems simple at first glance, exploring its use, forms, and grammatical roles reveals a depth that can help improve overall language proficiency.
What Is the Verb Form of “Complain”?
Base Form
The base form of the verb is“complain.”It functions as a regular verb and follows standard conjugation patterns in English grammar. “Complain” is used to indicate the act of stating that something is wrong or unsatisfactory.
ExampleThey always complain about the food.
Verb Tenses of “Complain”
Like all verbs in English, “complain” changes form based on the tense. Here are its common forms
- Base formcomplain
- Past simplecomplained
- Present participle/gerundcomplaining
- Past participlecomplained
These forms allow “complain” to be used in different grammatical contexts, such as continuous tenses or perfect tenses.
Usage in Different Tenses
Present Simple
Used for general truths or habits.
- She complains too much about her job.
- People complain when they feel ignored.
Past Simple
Used to describe actions completed in the past.
- He complained to the manager yesterday.
- They complained about the noise last night.
Present Continuous
Describes actions happening at the moment of speaking.
- She is complaining about her homework again.
- We are complaining because the service is slow.
Present Perfect
Shows an action that occurred at an unspecified time in the past and has relevance to the present.
- I have complained twice already.
- They have complained to customer support.
Common Sentence Structures Using “Complain”
The verb “complain” can be followed by different structures, depending on what is being communicated. Understanding these patterns can help construct more natural sentences.
Complain + About + Noun/Pronoun
This is the most common structure.
- He complained about the cold weather.
- They complained about the delay in service.
Complain + That + Clause
This structure introduces a complete idea or sentence after “complain.”
- She complained that the food was undercooked.
- He complained that no one listened to him.
Complain + To + Person
Used when identifying who the complaint is directed to.
- I complained to the teacher.
- They complained to the landlord about the leaking pipe.
Active vs. Passive Voice
Active Voice
The subject of the sentence performs the action.
- She complained about the rude staff.
Passive Voice
Less commonly used with “complain,” but possible in indirect forms.
- Complaints were made about the service.
Synonyms and Related Verbs
While “complain” is widely used, knowing synonyms can add variety and depth to writing and speech.
- GrumbleHe grumbled about the long wait.
- WhineStop whining about your homework.
- ProtestThe students protested against the policy.
- ObjectShe objected to the new rules.
- MoanThey moaned about the lack of food.
Common Expressions with “Complain”
English has a number of expressions and idioms that include “complain” or convey similar meanings.
- Complain bitterlyHe complained bitterly about his pay cut.
- Have grounds to complainThey had every right to complain about the noise.
- Make a complaintI made a complaint to the HR department.
Grammatical Notes
Verb Type
“Complain” is an intransitive verb. This means it does not take a direct object. You can’t say He complained the noise, but you can say He complained about the noise. The preposition “about” helps complete the meaning.
Spelling and Pronunciation
There is no spelling variation between American and British English for this verb. It is pronounced /kəmˈpleɪn/ and stressed on the second syllable.
Formal vs. Informal Usage
“Complain” works well in both formal and informal contexts. However, in formal writing, phrases like “lodge a complaint” or “register a concern” may be used instead.
- InformalHe’s always complaining about his job.
- FormalThe customer lodged a complaint with the company.
Practice Sentences
Here are more sample sentences that show how “complain” and its various forms are used in real-world contexts
- She complained about the noise from the construction site.
- He was always complaining, no matter the situation.
- They have complained to the council several times.
- The guests were complaining because the air conditioner was not working.
- I complained that the instructions were unclear.
The verb “complain” is a powerful and frequently used word in English. It allows speakers and writers to express dissatisfaction, voice their concerns, and seek solutions. While its verb form is straightforward, mastering its different grammatical constructions, tenses, and usage in various contexts can greatly enhance both written and spoken communication. Whether you’re writing a formal letter or having a casual conversation, understanding how to use the verb “complain” effectively will help you articulate frustration or discomfort in a clear and grammatically correct way.