complain-v; 2 Senses

Sense Number 1: express feelings of pain, dissatisfaction, or resentment

Commentary:
NOTE: General complaining - not involving legal action or the law

Examples:
Lots of people have complained about the noise.
You're always complaining!
He complained that his boss was useless and he had too much work.
She's complaining about a headache.

Mappings:
VerbNet: complain-37.8
FrameNet: Complaining
PropBank: complain.01
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 1

Sense Number 2: make formal, legal accusation or bring charge

Commentary:
NOTE: LAW - To file a complaint

Examples:
The neighbors complained to the police about the noise.
We have complained to the authorities and they will need to take action now.
The lawyer complained that the defendant had physically abused his client.

Mappings:
VerbNet: NM
FrameNet: Complaining
PropBank: NM
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 2