What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
complain
Example
I need to complain to the manager about the poor service at this restaurant. [complain: verb]
Example
She filed a complaint with HR about her coworker's behavior. [complaint: noun]
whine
Example
Stop whining about the weather and just bring an umbrella. [whining: gerund or present participle]
Example
The child whined about not getting a toy from the store. [whine: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Complain is more commonly used than whine in everyday language. Complain is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while whine is less common and often associated with negative connotations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between complain and whine?
Complain is typically associated with a more formal tone, while whine is associated with a more informal or childish tone.
