What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
groan
Example
He groaned in pain as he lifted the heavy box. [groaned: past tense]
Example
The audience groaned at the comedian's cheesy joke. [groaned: verb]
Example
She let out a groan of frustration when she saw the long line at the grocery store. [groan: noun]
complain
Example
He complained about the noisy neighbors keeping him up at night. [complained: past tense]
Example
She always complains about the food at this restaurant. [complains: present tense]
Example
The workers filed a complaint about the unsafe working conditions. [complaint: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Complain is more commonly used than groan in everyday language. Complain is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while groan is less common and usually associated with physical discomfort or bad jokes.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between groan and complain?
Complain is more formal than groan. Complain can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while groan is typically informal and used in casual conversations.
