file a complaint — to make a formal written complaint to an authority or organization about something
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: to make a formal written complaint to an authority or organization about something
Pronunciation (IPA): /faɪl ə kəmˈpleɪnt/
Example Sentences
- After waiting 3 hours at the DMV, Karen decided to file a complaint about the terrible service.
- The tenant filed a complaint against the landlord for refusing to fix the broken heating system.
- He threatened to file a complaint with the Better Business Bureau after the company refused his refund.
file a complaint
NOUN[/faɪl ə kəmˈpleɪnt/]
to make a formal written complaint to an authority or organization about something
He decided to file a complaint about the cold soup at the restaurant.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
File derives from Latin filum (thread), referencing the historical practice of fastening documents together with thread for storage. Complaint evolved from Latin complangere (to lament together), combining com- (together) and plangere (to strike or lament), eventually meaning a formal expression of dissatisfaction.
Breakdown
File: filum (thread) → documents threaded together for organization. Complaint: com- (together) + -plangere (to lament) → collective expression of grievance or dissatisfaction.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“After waiting 3 hours at the DMV, Karen decided to file a complaint about the terrible service.”
“The tenant filed a complaint against the landlord for refusing to fix the broken heating system.”
“He threatened to file a complaint with the Better Business Bureau after the company refused his refund.”
“My neighbor filed a complaint about my cat's 3 AM opera performances on the fence.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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