to sue; to complain to a superior
Meanings
2 senses · 7 examplesverb
to take to court; to sue; to bring a case before a court
formalFormal legal action. The object is often the wrongdoer or the issue.
He decided to sue the company for breach of contract.
After being slandered, she immediately gathered evidence to prepare a lawsuit.
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Many consumers protect their rights by taking legal action.
verb
to tattle; to complain to a superior or elder about unfair treatment
informalOften used in informal, everyday contexts, especially about children telling on each other or employees complaining to their boss. Can imply that the complaint is minor or petty.
Why are you complaining everywhere about such a trivial matter?
My little brother snatched my toy, so I had no choice but to tattle to Mom.
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After being treated unfairly, he went directly to the manager to complain about his supervisor.
The employees, dissatisfied with their pay, went together to the boss to complain.