grumble

USAGE SUMMARY

"grumble" is a correct and usable word in written English.
You can use it to describe a sound that someone makes, usually a low and prolonged sound expressing dissatisfaction, anger, or discomfort, like when a person grumbles when they're asked to do something they don't want to do. Example: When the teacher asked the student to clean up after the class was done, he grumbled under his breath in protest.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Given that most have wanted the company to get bigger in events, they can hardly grumble that Cobbold has presented them with a deal that, he says, will improve returns on capital from the off.

The Guardian - Business

The New York Times claimed Jacobs's reaction was to grumble "sourly".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Much of the rest of his party disagrees with such purple treachery and will certainly grumble at getting only 12.8% in a seat the Tories held until 16 years ago (on different boundaries).

The Guardian - Opinion

But there is a grumble, one that even Ali shares.

The Guardian

"When we talk or grumble [with one another] we still say, 'Just wait til your father gets back, he's going to be so upset with you.'" She laughs quietly.

The Guardian

But it's rich for Joe Lewis to grumble about a lack of firm management: the source of much of the upheaval in the past 18 months has been Piedmont, Lewis's investment vehicle, owner of 22.8% of the shares.

The Guardian - Business

It is no good MPs turning up at community events "looking at their watches".Not all Conservatives in safe seats get it, colleagues grumble.

The Economist

Lib Dems are barmy, grumble Tory right-wingers.

The Economist

Prince William and his brother Prince Harry are "like everyday people", she says.In the Mass Observation Silver Jubilee files, critics grumble about the monarchy costing too much or entrenching privilege.

The Economist

They grumble about the "unfinished revolution"—and the lack of medical help they have got for injuries sustained during last year's demonstrations, which eventually forced out President Ali Abdullah Saleh after 33 years in office.

The Economist

Oppressors are often popular; free people are free to grumble at their leaders.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "grumble" when you want to convey a low, indistinct complaint or a rumbling sound, ensuring the context aligns with the intended meaning. For example, "He grumbled about the weather" effectively conveys mild dissatisfaction.

Common error

While "grumble" is widely understood, avoid using it excessively in formal writing. Opt for more precise and professional alternatives like "complain" or "express dissatisfaction" to maintain a sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "grumble" is as a verb, indicating the action of making a low, indistinct complaint or a rumbling sound. As Ludwig AI confirms, it accurately describes the action or sound in different contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "grumble" is a versatile term used to describe both a low, rumbling sound and a low, indistinct complaint. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used. It's most frequently found in News & Media, Formal & Business and Science contexts. While perfectly acceptable in many situations, it might be too informal for certain formal contexts, where alternatives like "complain" or "express dissatisfaction" might be more appropriate. The word carries a neutral tone and serves to express a sense of low dissatisfaction or background noise, depending on the context. Its high frequency and clear meaning make it a reliable choice for writers.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

complain

Focuses more on the verbal expression of dissatisfaction.

murmur

Implies a softer, less distinct expression of discontent.

mutter

Suggests speaking quietly and indistinctly, often with negativity.

grouch

Emphasizes a habitual state of complaining or irritability.

whine

Suggests a high-pitched, complaining tone, often childish.

carp

Indicates persistent and petty complaining.

croak

Can describe a low, guttural sound, similar to a "grumble", but often associated with illness or age.

growl

Implies a deeper, more aggressive expression of discontent or warning.

rumble

Refers to a low, continuous sound, like thunder or a hungry stomach.

beef

An informal term for complaining, often about minor issues.

FAQs

How can I use "grumble" in a sentence?

You can use "grumble" to describe both a low, rumbling sound and a low, indistinct complaint. For example, "The engine grumbled as it started" or "He grumbled about the slow service".

What are some synonyms for "grumble"?

Some synonyms for "grumble" include "complain", "murmur", "mutter", "grouch", and "rumble", depending on the specific context.

What is the difference between "grumble" and "complain"?

"Grumble" often implies a lower intensity and less direct expression of dissatisfaction than "complain". To "grumble" suggests a quiet, muttered complaint, while to "complain" is a more open and direct expression of grievance.

Is it appropriate to use "grumble" in formal writing?

While "grumble" is acceptable in general writing, it may be too informal for certain formal contexts. Consider using alternatives such as "express dissatisfaction" or "raise concerns" for a more professional tone.