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queja

KEH-hahˈke.xa

“queja” means “complaint” in Spanish (expression of dissatisfaction).

complaint

Also: grievance, grumble
NounfA2
A disgruntled young child standing with crossed arms and a prominent frown, expressing clear dissatisfaction.

📝 In Action

Tengo una queja sobre la comida.

A2

I have a complaint about the food.

El vecino presentó una queja por el ruido.

B1

The neighbor filed a complaint about the noise.

No escuché su queja, estaba muy ocupado.

A2

I didn't hear his complaint; I was very busy.

Sus quejas constantes me ponen de mal humor.

B1

His constant complaints put me in a bad mood.

Word Connections

Synonyms

Antonyms

  • elogio (praise)
  • felicitación (congratulation)

Common Collocations

  • poner una queja – to file a complaint
  • presentar una queja – to submit a complaint
  • hoja de quejas – complaint form

Translate to Spanish

Words that translate to "queja" in Spanish:

complaint→grievance→grumble→

✏️ Quick Practice

Quick Quiz: queja

Question 1 of 2

Which sentence correctly uses 'queja'?

📚 More Resources

👥 Word Family▼
quejarse(to complain (verb)) — Verb
quejido(groan / moan (noun)) — Noun
quejica(whiner / complaining person (noun/adjective)) — Noun / Adjective
🎵 Rhymes▼
abejamadeja
📚 Etymology▼

The word 'queja' comes from the Spanish verb 'quejar,' which has roots in the Vulgar Latin word *quassiare*, meaning 'to shake' or 'to shatter.' Over time, this evolved in Spanish to describe the act of expressing pain, grief, or dissatisfaction.

First recorded: 13th century

Cognates (Related words)

Portuguese: queixaCatalan: queixa

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between 'queja' and 'quejarse'?

'Queja' (noun) is the physical complaint itself—the statement or document you make. 'Quejarse' (verb) is the action of complaining. Think: 'the complaint' vs. 'to complain.'

Is 'queja' formal or informal?

It is a very common, neutral word. It can be used for both formal situations (like filing a report) and informal situations (like grumbling to a friend).