lodge a complaint

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lodge a complaint" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase is typically used when someone wants to formally make a complaint about something or someone, usually to an organization or authority figure. For example, "I am going to lodge a complaint with the local police department about the persistent noise coming from my neighbor's house."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I should lodge a complaint.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"People wouldn't know where to go to lodge a complaint.

The New York Times

And it's not as if it's at all difficult for a passenger to lodge a complaint.

The New York Times

According to the act: "Only an 'aggrieved person' may lodge a complaint.

The Guardian

He flew to Pakistan after learning of her death to lodge a complaint with police.

The Guardian

Call local politicians or appropriate nonprofit organizations to lodge a complaint.

The New York Times

When they discover the affair, they lodge a complaint in court for corruption of a minor.

The New Yorker

The minors did not lodge a complaint because they believed it would not be investigated adequately.

The Guardian

The journalist said he does not intend to lodge a complaint.

The Guardian

I didn't lodge a complaint because people like us never win against the police.

The Guardian

On the other hand, he can lodge a complaint against his kidnappers.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure your complaint is well-documented and supported with evidence before you "lodge a complaint" to strengthen your case.

Common error

Avoid generalizations when you "lodge a complaint". Provide specific details such as dates, times, locations, and individuals involved to ensure your complaint is taken seriously.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lodge a complaint" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of formally submitting a grievance or accusation. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is usable in written English. It highlights a deliberate act of reporting an issue to an authority or organization.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "lodge a complaint" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe the act of formally submitting a grievance. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate in written English and is widely used across various contexts, especially in news and media. When using the phrase, it's best to provide specific details to support your complaint and clearly identify the recipient of the complaint. While alternatives such as "file a grievance" or "submit a claim" exist, "lodge a complaint" carries a nuance of formality and officialdom.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

file a grievance

Focuses more on internal procedures within organizations.

make a formal accusation

Emphasizes the gravity and potential legal implications.

submit a claim

Suggests seeking compensation or resolution through official channels.

register an objection

Highlights disagreement or opposition to something.

raise an issue

Implies bringing a problem to attention for discussion or resolution.

voice a protest

Conveys a strong expression of disapproval, often publicly.

present a case against

Formally argues against someone or something.

bring charges

Implies initiating legal proceedings.

express dissatisfaction

A more general way of showing unhappiness.

air a grievance

To publicly express a complaint or grievance.

FAQs

How to use "lodge a complaint" in a sentence?

You can use "lodge a complaint" when you want to formally report an issue or express dissatisfaction. For example, "I intend to "lodge a complaint" regarding the service I received."

What can I say instead of "lodge a complaint"?

You can use alternatives like "file a grievance", "submit a claim", or "register an objection" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "lodge a complaint" or "make a complaint"?

"Lodge a complaint" and "make a complaint" are both correct, but ""lodge a complaint"" is often used in more formal contexts.

What's the difference between "lodge a complaint" and "express dissatisfaction"?

"Lodge a complaint" implies a formal process, whereas "express dissatisfaction" is a more general expression of unhappiness without necessarily involving official channels.