a particular complaint

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a particular complaint" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when specifying a specific issue or grievance that someone has. Example: "The manager addressed a particular complaint raised by the employees regarding the new policy changes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

A particular complaint of the industry is the high rate of sales tax (VAT) in Britain.

The Economist

A particular complaint is that, unlike anonymous posters, Yelpers can be e-mailed after a review and offered free food or drink.

The New York Times - Food

Scotland was one of the parts of the U.K. that favored Remain in the 2016 referendum, but it has a particular complaint.

The New Yorker

This has been a particular complaint of Mr. Gorbachev as he continues to denounce the republic's secession as illegal and therefore nonnegotiable.

The New York Times

The pot lid, which covered the meal served by a wife to her husband, illustrates a particular complaint about their marital relationship a wife's displeasure with her husband, for example; when that lid was used, the husband was obliged to discuss and resolve the problem publicly with the help of mealtime witnesses.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Separately from news coverage, some readers complained about several Op-Ed columns by Charles Blow, finding them one-sided, with a particular complaint about one that appeared on July 3, comparing Mr. Zimmerman's videotaped re-enactment with his written and spoken statements.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

Columbia's data does not disclose details of any particular complaint, making it impossible to know whether a specific investigation identified a suspect who ultimately was judged not responsible.

Huffington Post

"Chelsea is not one to respond to any particular complaint made by any group," Huvane told The Huffington Post by email.

Huffington Post

There's a very particular complaint that pops up with reasonable frequency from a very specific type of politics nerd, generally just after Paul Keating has made a public pronouncement.

The Guardian

Some participants thought that their particular complaint warranted an AED visit.

Emergency Medicine Journal

"Why not sell the goods and services people want?"While the Red/Blue divide is often exaggerated, there is a lot of heft to this particular complaint.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a particular complaint", ensure that the context clearly identifies what makes the complaint specific or unique to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify the aspect, situation, or individual to which the complaint relates.

Common error

Avoid using "a particular complaint" without providing sufficient context. Overuse can make writing seem vague if the specific issue isn't clarified for the reader. Replace with stronger synonyms or rephrase to explicitly state the problem.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a particular complaint" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It denotes a specific instance of dissatisfaction or grievance. Ludwig examples show its usage in various contexts, confirming its role in identifying precise issues.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a particular complaint" is a noun phrase used to highlight a specific issue or grievance. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. While relatively rare in usage, its primary function is to emphasize a distinct problem, often prompting further attention or resolution. The phrase is suitable for various contexts, but ensure the context clarifies the specifics of the complaint. Alternatives such as "a specific grievance" can be employed for a more formal tone. The most common contexts for this phrase are News & Media and Science, showing its diverse applications across different fields.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a specific grievance

Replaces "particular complaint" with a more formal term, emphasizing the grievance aspect.

a distinct issue

Focuses on the issue being clear and separate from others.

a precise objection

Highlights the exactness of the complaint.

a certain dissatisfaction

Emphasizes the feeling of discontent related to a specific matter.

a detailed criticism

Implies a thorough examination and expression of disapproval.

a singular concern

Underscores the uniqueness or importance of the worry.

an individual protest

Focuses on the act of formally objecting to something.

a unique contention

Highlights the distinctiveness of the point being argued.

a special charge

Emphasizes the accusation or allegation being made.

a noteworthy remonstrance

Uses a more formal term for expressing disapproval or opposition.

FAQs

How can I use "a particular complaint" in a sentence?

You can use "a particular complaint" to refer to a specific issue that someone is unhappy about. For example, "The customer service representative addressed "a particular complaint" regarding the shipping delay".

What's a more formal way to say "a particular complaint"?

For a more formal tone, consider using "a specific grievance" or "a precise objection". These alternatives provide a more elevated and professional feel.

How does "a particular complaint" differ from "a general complaint"?

"A particular complaint" refers to a specific, individual issue, while "a general complaint" refers to a broad, non-specific concern. Using "a particular complaint" implies there's a defined problem, not just a vague feeling of dissatisfaction.

When is it appropriate to use "a particular complaint" in writing?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize that you are talking about one specific issue or grievance, rather than a widespread problem. Use it when details about the complaint are relevant to your narrative or discussion.