What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
complaint
Example
I have a complaint about the quality of service at this restaurant. [complaint: noun]
Example
She complained to the manager about the rude behavior of the staff. [complained: verb]
Example
The customer left a complaint on the company's website about the faulty product. [complaint: noun]
grievance
Example
The union filed a grievance against the company for violating the terms of the contract. [grievance: noun]
Example
She had a grievance against her boss for not promoting her despite her qualifications. [grievance: noun]
Example
The workers had several grievances about the unsafe working conditions. [grievances: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Complaint is a more common word than grievance in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts. Grievance is more commonly used in legal or labor-related contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between complaint and grievance?
Grievance is typically more formal than complaint and is often associated with legal or labor-related contexts. Complaint can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
