Basic Details
Word: Complain
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To express dissatisfaction or annoyance about something.
Synonyms: Grumble, protest, object
Antonyms: Praise, compliment, approve
Idioms and Phrases
- Complain to the wind: To speak to someone who cannot help you, making your complaints pointless. Example: "He was just complaining to the wind about his homework."
- Whine and complain: To continually express dissatisfaction, often in a high-pitched voice. Example: "Stop whining and complaining, and let's find a solution to the problem!"
Usage Examples
Example 1: She often complains about the weather being too cold during winter.
Example 2: If you have a problem with your meal, you should politely complain to the restaurant staff.
Example 3: Instead of complaining about traffic, he tries to enjoy listening to music on his way to work.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the word "complain" comes from the Latin word "complainere," which means "to lament or cry out?" It has been used in English since the 1300s!
Famous Quote
"People complain about their memory, but they never complain about their judgment." Aidan Chambers
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "complain" mean?
a) To express joy
b) To express dissatisfaction
c) To offer help
d) To ignore someone
Answer: b) To express dissatisfaction
2. Which of these is a synonym of "complain"?
a) Grumble
b) Enjoy
c) Celebrate
d) Share
Answer: a) Grumble
3. Which word is an antonym of "complain"?
a) Protest
b) Compliment
c) Whine
d) Object
Answer: b) Compliment
4. Which sentence uses "complain" correctly?
a) She will complain about being too warm in summer.
b) He likes to complain when he is happy.
c) They always complain about kindness.
d) Complaining is the best way to solve problems.
Answer: a) She will complain about being too warm in summer.
5. Which idiom means speaking without purpose?
a) Complain to the wind
b) Complain and explain
c) Whine and dine
d) Complain less, smile more
Answer: a) Complain to the wind
