What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
complaint
Example
She filed a complaint with the manager about the poor service at the restaurant. [complaint: noun]
Example
He complained about the loud music coming from the neighbor's house. [complained: verb]
criticism
Example
The movie received mixed reviews, with some critics praising its acting while others criticized its plot. [critics: noun]
Example
She criticized her friend's decision to quit her job without having another one lined up. [criticized: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Complaint is more commonly used in everyday language than criticism. Complaint is often used to express dissatisfaction or annoyance about a situation or person, while criticism is often used in more formal or professional contexts to provide feedback or evaluation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between complaint and criticism?
Criticism is generally more formal than complaint, as it is often used in professional or academic settings to evaluate or analyze a work of art, literature, or performance. However, both words can be used in formal or informal contexts depending on the tone and intention.
