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Pavel 77
Is it normal to use expression " mustn't grumble" and "can't complain" in response to a question?
Is it normal to use expression " mustn't grumble" and "can't complain" in response to a question " How are you? " Do you use them? Thanks in advance.
Jan 19, 2015 7:43 PM
Answers · 12
2
We use, "I can't complain." in the US, too. But never, "mustn't grumble".
January 19, 2015
2
Only in Britain!
This is a very typical British response, which explains a lot about the British psyche. Here are some articles about it:
http://www.lastwordonnothing.com/2014/01/24/mustnt-grumble/
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/11146551/Trust-an-Englishman-to-have-the-last-word.html
January 19, 2015
1
I agree with "Business English Ed," "Can't complain" is common in the U.S., and I agree with Giulia Monaco that is something older people say. I THINK the meaning is "because I am old, I am always experiencing minor aches and pains, but they aren't bad, and given my age I can't complain."
In Gilbert and Sullivan's "Princess Ida," a character sings a comic song about his frustration because he WANTS to grumble, and the people around him thwart him by giving him everything he wants:
"Ah! Oh, don't the days seem lank and long
When all goes right and nothing goes wrong,
And isn't your life extremely flat
With nothing whatever to grumble at!"
http://diamond.boisestate.edu/gas/princess_ida/webop/pi_23.html
January 20, 2015
1
I would use 'can't complain' if I am feeling okay and nothing is particularly wrong.
I have never heard anyone use mustn't grumble as a response though.
Hope this helps
January 19, 2015
1
You sure can, especially in British English. Just bear in mind that 'mustn't grumble' in particular has a humorous to it.
January 19, 2015
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Pavel 77
Language Skills
English, Russian
Learning Language
English
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