Complainant Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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complainant
[kəmˈpleɪnənt ]
Definition
legal term
A person who brings a legal action against someone else, often referred to as the plaintiff.
Synonyms
accuser, petitioner, plaintiff.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| complainant |
This term is often used in legal contexts to refer to someone who makes a formal complaint, especially in a criminal case.
|
| plaintiff |
The term 'plaintiff' is specifically used in civil law to refer to the person who brings a lawsuit against another party.
|
| accuser |
Use this term to refer to someone who claims that another person has done something wrong. It can be used in legal settings or more general situations.
|
| petitioner |
This word is used for someone who pleads or makes a formal request, especially in a legal context. It is often used in the context of petitions for divorce or immigration.
|
Examples of usage
- The complainant alleged that the defendant breached the contract.
- The complainant filed a lawsuit against the company for discrimination.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Legal Context
- In legal terms, a complainant is often the person bringing a case to court, claiming harm or injustice.
- Complainants play a critical role in civil and criminal law, as their statements often lead to investigations.
- The term is often contrasted with the defendant, who is the person being accused or taken to court.
Cultural Perspectives
- In some cultures, expressing grievances or lodging complaints is seen as an important aspect of community justice.
- The perception of a complainant can vary; they may be viewed as a whistleblower or as disruptive, depending on the context.
- Cultural norms can influence how complaints are received, with some societies valuing harmony over expression of dissatisfaction.
Psychology
- Research shows that voicing complaints can be a healthy way to cope with stress and seek resolution.
- Complainants can often experience relief after stating their concerns, providing emotional closure or motivation for change.
- Not all complaints lead to positive outcomes; sometimes they can increase feelings of frustration if ignored.
Pop Culture
- The figure of the complainant often appears in movies and books, representing the fight against injustice or bureaucracy.
- In comedy, complainants are often portrayed humorously, emphasizing the ridiculousness of certain complaints.
- Public figures have raised awareness about complainants in social issues through media, often fueling societal debates.
Origin of 'complainant'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'complainare', which means 'to lament' or 'to express grief'.
- In the 14th century, it was first used in English, showing a gradual shift towards legal contexts.
- It has evolved over time to specifically refer to someone who formally alleges wrongdoing.
The word 'complainant' originated from the Latin word 'complangere', which means 'to lament or bewail'. Over time, the term evolved to refer to a person who brings a formal complaint or legal action against another party. In legal contexts, the complainant is the party who initiates a legal proceeding by filing a complaint or accusation.
See also: complainer, complaining, complaint.