complain
verb B2
Plain meaning
say that you are unhappy about something
Exam-register meaning
In academic or exam writing, this is used to discuss say that you are unhappy about something in a more precise way.
In context
naturalThe team tried to complain about service before the deadline.
examThe passage suggests that institutions may need to complain about service in order to improve long-term outcomes.
Common collocations
complain about servicecomplain to a managercomplain bitterly
Watch out
Do not pair it with a random object. Learn the full pattern, e.g., “complain about service”. Also avoid confusing it with “criticise”.