complaints about

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "complaints about" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to someone’s grievances, typically those expressed in a formal manner. For example: "We have received several complaints about the recent increase in parking fees."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Complaints about loud talking.

The New Yorker

Complaints about Google bureaucracy intensified.

The New Yorker

Complaints about email abound.

Harvard Business Review

Complaints about loud parties.

The New Yorker

CM: Complaints about refereeing.

The Guardian - Sport

Complaints about construction equipment.

The New Yorker

Complaints about barking dogs.

The New Yorker

There were no complaints about weaponry.

The Guardian

I have received several complaints about this.

The New York Times

No complaints about parties have been received.

The New York Times

Everyone has complaints about the 1999 agreement.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "complaints about", be specific about the subject of the complaints to provide clarity and avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "There were complaints about the service", specify "There were complaints about the slow service".

Common error

Avoid using "complaints about" without providing context or specific details. This can lead to confusion and make it difficult for the audience to understand the nature and scope of the issues. Always clarify what the complaints are concerning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "complaints about" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically modifying a noun or verb. It introduces the subject of the complaints, specifying what the grievances are directed towards. Ludwig AI confirms the grammatical correctness and usability of the phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

20%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "complaints about" is a common and grammatically sound way to express dissatisfaction or report on grievances. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely used across various contexts, particularly in news and media, and is generally considered neutral in register. To ensure clarity, it's best practice to specify the subject of the complaints. Be mindful of vague references and provide context to avoid confusion. Some alternatives include "concerns regarding" and "issues concerning", offering nuanced ways to convey similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

grievances regarding

Formal alternative emphasizing a sense of injustice or wrong.

issues concerning

Focuses on problematic aspects or difficulties.

concerns pertaining to

Highlights specific points of worry or unease.

objections to

Expresses opposition or disapproval.

dissatisfaction with

Emphasizes a lack of contentment or fulfillment.

criticisms of

Directly points out flaws or shortcomings.

protests against

Implies active opposition or resistance.

negative feedback on

Highlights critical or unfavorable opinions.

unhappiness with

Suggests a state of discontent or sadness.

displeasure over

Indicates annoyance or dissatisfaction about a specific event or situation.

FAQs

How do I use "complaints about" in a sentence?

You can use "complaints about" to indicate grievances or expressions of dissatisfaction. For example: "The company received numerous "complaints about" the new policy".

What are some alternatives to "complaints about"?

Some alternatives include "concerns regarding", "issues concerning", or "grievances pertaining to" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "complaints about" or "complaints regarding"?

"Complaints about" and "complaints regarding" are often interchangeable, but "complaints regarding" may sound slightly more formal.

What's the difference between "complaints about" and "criticisms of"?

"Complaints about" usually refer to expressions of dissatisfaction, while "criticisms of" imply a more analytical assessment of flaws or shortcomings. The former is often more emotive, the latter more objective.