What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
complain
Example
She complained about the noise from the construction site. [complained: past tense]
Example
He filed a complaint with the manager about the poor service. [complaint: noun]
grumble
Example
He grumbled about the long wait at the doctor's office. [grumbled: past tense]
Example
She tends to grumble about the weather no matter what it is like. [grumble: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Complain is more commonly used than grumble in everyday language. Complain is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while grumble is less common and has a more negative connotation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between complain and grumble?
Complain is typically associated with a more formal and direct tone, while grumble is more informal and indirect. Therefore, complain is more appropriate for formal or official situations, while grumble is better suited for casual or familiar contexts.
