widespread grumbling

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "widespread grumbling" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where there is a lot of complaining or dissatisfaction among a large group of people. Example: "After the announcement of the new policy, there was widespread grumbling among the employees about the changes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

That prompted widespread grumbling from the thousands who gathered to watch the ceremony.

The New York Times

There is, however, widespread grumbling that presidential relatives own a piece of most major businesses.

The New York Times

Widespread grumbling has accompanied the crackdown.

The New York Times

In a move that provoked widespread grumbling, his staff cordoned off a capitol elevator for his exclusive use, preventing lawmakers from riding with him.

The New York Times

There was widespread grumbling, especially among the so-called service partners — the lawyers who assisted the rainmakers but had no client relationships of their own.

The New Yorker

There was widespread grumbling, especially among the so-called service partners the lawyers who assisted the rainmakers but had no client relationships of their own.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

The new two-storey wing is provoking widespread grumbles ("It looks like a suburban supermarket," one recent visitor was heard to say).

The Economist

And why all of a sudden is it not O.K. to do that in Florida, and why won't he take the vice president's deal and have a manual recount of the entire state?" Although grumbling was widespread, some hardy souls were still enjoying the political maneuvering.

The New York Times

Analysts report some grumbling from older executives whose powers FitzGerald has reduced but widespread support from the company's rank and file for his reforms.

Forbes

Yet some are grumbling.

The Economist

Still, there is grumbling.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "widespread grumbling" to succinctly convey that a significant portion of a group is expressing dissatisfaction, without necessarily escalating to formal protests or open rebellion.

Common error

While "widespread grumbling" is acceptable, overuse can make writing sound less professional. For formal reports, consider more neutral phrases like "general dissatisfaction" or "significant concerns" to maintain a polished tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "widespread grumbling" functions as a noun phrase that describes a state or condition of general dissatisfaction or complaint. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "widespread grumbling" is a grammatically sound and readily understandable way to describe collective dissatisfaction. While suitable for many contexts, slightly more formal language may be preferred for certain business or academic settings. Ludwig AI validates the accuracy of this phrase. Occurring predominantly in news and media, this phrase effectively conveys discontent without suggesting active revolt. Consider related alternatives to improve variety in your writings, such as "general discontent".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

general discontent

This alternative expresses a broader sense of dissatisfaction than a specific complaint.

broad dissatisfaction

This phrase highlights the extent of the unhappiness.

mass complaint

This highlights that there are many complaints and it's not necessarily as strong as "grumbling".

extensive murmuring

This evokes a softer, less overt form of complaint.

pervasive dissatisfaction

This emphasizes the feeling is present everywhere.

common complaint

Focuses on the shared nature of the grievance.

general uproar

Indicates a more intense and public display of dissatisfaction.

public outcry

Suggests a strong, collective protest.

widespread disapproval

This is different because it signifies that a large number of people don't approve of something.

collective lament

This gives a sad meaning where people are mourning together about something

FAQs

How can I use "widespread grumbling" in a sentence?

"Widespread grumbling" typically describes a situation where many people are complaining quietly or expressing dissatisfaction. For example: "The new policy changes led to "widespread grumbling" among the employees".

What phrases can I use instead of "widespread grumbling"?

Alternatives to "widespread grumbling" include phrases like "general discontent", "broad dissatisfaction", or "mass complaint", depending on the context.

Is "widespread grumbling" formal or informal?

"Widespread grumbling" is generally considered somewhat informal. In more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "significant concerns" or "general dissatisfaction".

What's the difference between "widespread grumbling" and "public outcry"?

"Widespread grumbling" suggests a lower level of public expression, more akin to murmuring or quiet complaining. A "public outcry" indicates a more intense and public display of anger or protest.