Skip to content

Grievance Definition & Meaning

grievance
noun
  1. a resentment strong enough to justify retaliation; "holding a grudge"; "settling a score"
  2. an allegation that something imposes an illegal obligation or denies some legal right or causes injustice
  3. a complaint about a (real or imaginary) wrong that causes resentment and is grounds for action

"Grievance" in song lyrics

See how grievance is used in real songs:

  • "Automatic guns rattlin', moppin' up blood stains, grievance"
    Layzie Bone & Bizzy Bone f/ Krayzie Bone — Str8 Ridaz
  • "Write a grievance"
    Mac Dre f/ Young Dru — Mafioso
  • "Gasping and wheezing, too late to scream at dispatch with his grievance"
    Substantial f/ Extended F@mm — Signs

Usage tips for "grievance"

Understanding the precise definition of a word helps you use it with confidence. When using "grievance" in your writing, consider whether you need the word itself or one of its synonyms — subtle differences in meaning can change the tone of a sentence. If you're writing poetry or song lyrics, check the rhymes for grievance to find words that pair well.

Use "grievance" in a verse

Now that you know what "grievance" means, try using it in your own lyrics:

Generate a verse

Frequently asked questions

What does grievance mean?
a resentment strong enough to justify retaliation; "holding a grudge"; "settling a score" an allegation that something imposes an illegal obligation or denies some legal right or causes injustice a complaint about a (real or imaginary) wrong that causes resentment and is grounds for action
What part of speech is grievance?
Grievance is a noun.
How many definitions does grievance have?
Grievance has 3 definitions across 1 part of speech (noun).

Look up another word