Bemoan: meaning, definitions and examples

😢
Add to dictionary

bemoan

 

[ bɪˈməʊn ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

express discontent or sorrow

To bemoan is to express deep grief, sorrow, or disappointment. It often involves lamenting or complaining about a situation or outcome.

Synonyms

complain, deplore, lament.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
bemoan

Use this word when expressing deep sorrow or disappointment about something, often with a sense of regret.

  • She bemoaned the loss of her favorite bracelet.
  • They bemoaned the decline in quality of the neighborhood schools.
lament

Use this word for expressing deep grief or sorrow, often in a formal or poetic context. It is suitable for serious and emotional situations.

  • He lamented the passing of his childhood friend with a heavy heart.
  • The poet lamented the destruction caused by the war.
complain

This word is used for expressing dissatisfaction or annoyance about something. It is more general and can be applied to everyday situations.

  • He complained about the noise coming from the construction site.
  • She always complains when her food is cold.
deplore

This word is suitable for expressing strong disapproval or condemnation of something, often from a moral standpoint.

  • The community deplored the corrupt actions of their local politician.
  • She deplores the rising levels of pollution in the city.

Examples of usage

  • She would often bemoan the lack of support from her colleagues.
  • The fans bemoaned the team's loss in the championship game.

Translations

Translations of the word "bemoan" in other languages:

🇵🇹 lamentar

🇮🇳 विलाप करना

🇩🇪 beklagen

🇮🇩 meratapi

🇺🇦 оплакувати

🇵🇱 opłakiwać

🇯🇵 嘆く (なげく)

🇫🇷 se lamenter

🇪🇸 lamentar

🇹🇷 ağlamak

🇰🇷 한탄하다

🇸🇦 يتحسر

🇨🇿 naříkat

🇸🇰 nariekať

🇨🇳 哀悼 (āidào)

🇸🇮 žalovati

🇮🇸 harma

🇰🇿 жылау

🇬🇪 გლოვა

🇦🇿 ağlamak

🇲🇽 lamentar

Etymology

The word 'bemoan' originated from the Middle English word 'bimōnen', which came from the Old English word 'bemǣnan'. The prefix 'be-' signifies 'about, around', while 'mǣnan' means 'complain, moan'. Over time, the word evolved to its current form in Modern English.

See also: moaner, moaning.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,061 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.