grievance - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
grievance Word Meanings
- a feeling of resentment or injustice
- a complaint against an unfair situation
- an expression of dissatisfaction
grievance Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
grievance Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈgriː.vəns/
US
/ˈɡriː.vəns/
grievance Word Etymology
The word 'grievance' comes from 'grieve' which means to cause sorrow, and the suffix '-ance' which indicates a state or condition. Originates from Latin 'gravamen', through Old French. Imagine someone burdened with a heavy heart, feeling wronged and seeking justice.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
A grievance is a feeling of being wronged or treated unfairly, often accompanied by a sense of injustice. In everyday use, it can refer to a personal hurt or a formal complaint about a problem at work, school, or in a service setting. People may voice a grievance to seek redress, clarification, or policy change. The word emphasizes ongoing dissatisfaction rather than a single momentary annoyance. Grievance can describe both private feelings and official procedures, such as a workplace grievance procedure or a formal complaint to a supervisor. When you use grievance, you signal a serious, sometimes procedural, complaint rather than a casual gripe.
Usage Reminders
- Use grievance for persistent feelings of unfairness or formal complaints about a problem.
- Keep the tone formal in work or school contexts.
- Don’t confuse with casual gripes or petty annoyances.
- Pair with related terms like grievance procedure or redress.
- Save for issues where a remedy or change is expected.
Common Misconceptions
- Grievance = just a bad mood; it is always casual
- Grievance only refers to legal action
- Any complaint is a grievance
- Grievance cannot be about personal interactions
- Grievance must be filed in a formal setting immediately
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Learn the formal contexts where grievance is common
- Practice with phrases like file a grievance and grievance procedure
- Compare with complaint to pick the right tone
- Note collocations: voice a grievance, raise a grievance
- Watch for misuses in casual conversation
- Keep registrations in HR or law contexts separate
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'grievance'?
A.A situation that brings joy
B.A type of food
C.A complaint or resentment
D.A type of insect
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'grievance' correctly?
A.The company addressed the employee's grievance about overtime pay.
B.The teacher gave her a grievance for her excellent work.
C.His grievance for chocolate is well known.
D.She always expresses her grievances with a smile.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'grievance'?
A.Joy
B.Contentment
C.Distress
D.Excitement
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'grievance'?
A.Enthusiasm
B.Joy
C.Satisfaction
D.Elation
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario of 'grievance'?
A.The customer's complaint about a faulty product
B.The celebration of a birthday party
C.The excitement of buying a new car
D.The satisfaction of finishing a book
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