Definition

1. Noun:
   • A feeling of resentment over something believed to be wrong or unfair: A "grievance" is a strong feeling of having been treated unjustly, often leading to a formal complaint.
   • A formal complaint, especially one made by an employee or through an official procedure: It refers to a stated cause for complaint, typically regarding a violation of rights, rules, or fairness, which is presented for resolution.

Usage

• A "grievance" is typically a serious, formal complaint about a perceived wrong, not a minor annoyance. It implies a sense of injustice that needs to be addressed.
• It is commonly used in workplace, legal, and union contexts where there are established procedures for filing and resolving grievances.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The employee filed a grievance with the human resources department about unfair dismissal.
  • The community's main grievance was the lack of access to clean water.
  • He harbored a deep grievance against his former business partner for years.

Advanced Usage

• "To have/nurse a grievance (against someone)": To continue to feel resentful about a past wrong.
  • She still nursed a grievance against the company that had laid her off.
• "To air/voice a grievance": To express a complaint formally or publicly.
  • The meeting was an opportunity for residents to air their grievances.
• "A legitimate grievance": A complaint that is justified and based on a real wrong.
  • The workers had several legitimate grievances about safety conditions.

Variants and Related Words

• Grieve (verb): To feel great sorrow. (Note: While related etymologically, "grieve" is primarily about sadness, not complaint).
• Aggrieved (adjective): Feeling resentment due to unjust treatment.
  • The aggrieved party sought legal advice.

Synonyms

• Complaint: A statement that a situation is unsatisfactory or unacceptable.
• Gripe: (Informal) A minor complaint.
• Grudge: A persistent feeling of ill will or resentment resulting from a past insult or injury.

Antonyms

• Compliment: A polite expression of praise or admiration.
• Approbation: Approval or praise.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• "To have a bone to pick (with someone)": To have a specific grievance or complaint to discuss with someone. (This is an informal idiom expressing a similar concept).
  • I have a bone to pick with you about the way you handled that client.

Noun

1. a complaint about a (real or imaginary) wrong that causes resentment and is grounds for action
2. an allegation that something imposes an illegal obligation or denies some legal right or causes injustice
3. a resentment strong enough to justify retaliation
   • holding a grudge
   • settling a score