Complainable

Complainable is an English adjective used to describe something that is capable of being complained about or that is likely to provoke criticism or grievances. It is commonly applied to products, services, policies, or behavior that falls short of expected standards and invites negative feedback from consumers, users, or observers.

Origin and usage: The term combines complain with the suffix -able. It emerged in modern English in informal contexts and online discourse. It is not widely published in major dictionaries, and its acceptability varies by register and audience.

Usage notes: In practice, many speakers prefer more explicit phrases such as “worthy of complaint” or “complaint-worthy.” Complainable can be used as a concise label in consumer reviews, social media, or light‑hearted commentary. Examples: “The app’s frequent crashes are complainable” (informal); “The delays were complaint-worthy and management apologized.” Some readers will favor alternatives in formal writing, while others may adopt the neologism for brevity.

Related terms: Complainable is closely related to complaint, complaint-worthy, and being subject to a grievance. It contrasts with more general terms like annoying or frustrating, which describe affect rather than the potential for formal complaint. In legal or formal contexts, terms such as actionable or grievances may be preferred.

See also: complaint, complaint-worthy, grievance, protest, consumer protection.