raise a complaint

USAGE SUMMARY

"Raise a complaint" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You could use it when you want to express the idea of formally reporting an issue or expressing dissatisfaction with something or someone. Example: "If you are unhappy with the service you received, you are welcome to raise a complaint."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Some people think it is horrible, and raise a complaint if they hear of it occurring on public lands.

The New Yorker

The report concludes that there was no written, published procedure or common practice for party members to raise a complaint with CCHQ.

The Guardian

I have tried to contact Plusnet but cannot find anywhere on its website to dispute this, nor is there any way to raise a complaint.

The Guardian - Money

There is no need to pay a claims manager to raise a complaint.

BBC

Mr Scott, of the Safety Technical Group (STG), said pressure exerted upon him had been "so significant" he had no choice but to raise a complaint.

BBC

You generally need to raise a complaint within six years of being sold the policy or within three years of realising there was a problem with the sale of the policy.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

A prominent red-shirt leader and opposition member of Parliament, Jatuporn Prompan, raised a complaint of double standards that has been a running theme throughout the protests.

The New York Times

If they had been mistreated, Mr. Shafiei was quoted as saying, they could have raised a complaint during their court hearings.

The New York Times

A spokesman issued a statement that read: "Dave is not in violation of our policy and no one has ever raised a complaint against him".

The New York Times

They allege that his wife Shilpi then raised a complaint with the shalish – a makeshift village council – claiming that the two cousins had been having an affair.

The Guardian

A spokesperson for the restaurant told the Evening Standard:  "We have been already being in touch with the two guests that raised a complaint following their visit last week trying to get further details of the visit.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "raise a complaint", ensure that the context implies a formal expression of dissatisfaction or a grievance that needs to be addressed. Provide specific details to support your complaint for it to be taken seriously.

Common error

Avoid using "raise a complaint" in casual contexts. This phrase is best suited for situations where a formal grievance or issue is being reported. Use more informal language like "mention a problem" or "voice a concern" for everyday situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "raise a complaint" functions as a verbal phrase indicating the action of formally expressing dissatisfaction or reporting a problem. Ludwig's examples showcase its use in contexts where issues are brought to the attention of relevant authorities or organizations.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "raise a complaint" is a phrase used to describe formally expressing dissatisfaction or reporting an issue. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English, particularly within news and media contexts. While not extremely common, the phrase is well-understood and serves the purpose of initiating a formal grievance process. Alternatives include "file a complaint" and "lodge a complaint", offering similar but nuanced ways to convey the same idea.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

file a complaint

Replaces "raise" with "file", emphasizing the formal submission of a complaint.

lodge a complaint

Substitutes "raise" with "lodge", suggesting a more formal or official way of registering a complaint.

make a complaint

Uses "make" instead of "raise", a more general way to express the act of complaining.

submit a grievance

Replaces "complaint" with "grievance", indicating a formal expression of dissatisfaction.

voice concerns

Offers a milder alternative, focusing on expressing worries or concerns rather than a formal complaint.

express dissatisfaction

Replaces the entire phrase with a more descriptive expression of unhappiness.

register an objection

Emphasizes the act of formally disagreeing or protesting.

state a grievance

Similar to "submit a grievance" but uses "state" to emphasize the articulation of the complaint.

air concerns

Implies bringing concerns to public attention.

express reservations

Focuses on expressing doubts or hesitations about something.

FAQs

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

You can use "raise a complaint" to describe the act of formally reporting an issue. For example, "If you are not satisfied with the product, you have the right to "raise a complaint" with customer service."

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

You can use alternatives like "file a complaint", "lodge a complaint", or "make a complaint" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to "raise a complaint"?

It is appropriate to "raise a complaint" when you have a legitimate reason to express dissatisfaction formally, such as poor service, defective products, or unfair treatment. Ensure you have supporting evidence to strengthen your case.

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

Both ""raise a complaint"" and "make a complaint" are correct. "Raise a complaint" might imply a slightly more formal approach, but they are largely interchangeable.