Writing: B1/B2 - Lesson 10: Writing a Formal Letter of Complaint

Formal Complaint

😠➡️👔

Be Firm, Not Rude

The Art of Complaining

1. The Polite Opening

"I am writing to express my dissatisfaction with..."

2. The Specific Problem

"The product I received was defective / damaged."

3. The Solution (Request)

"I would appreciate it if you could replace the item / provide a refund."

Key Rule: Keep calm. Do not use exclamation marks (!!!) or emotional language like "I hate this." Use "I am disappointed."

🗣️

Tone Translator

Rude ➔ Professional

"I want my money back NOW!" "I would like to request a full refund."

"Your service is terrible." "The service was below the expected standard."

"Fix it!" "Please resolve this matter immediately."

📝

Complaint Builder

Scenario: Late Delivery

1. Opening (The Reason) -- Choose -- I am angry about my package. I am writing to complain about a late delivery.

2. The Details (Fact) -- Choose -- Although I ordered it two weeks ago, it has not arrived. You are very slow.

3. The Solution (Action) -- Choose -- Please dispatch the item immediately or refund my account. Give me the stuff.

4. Sign-off -- Choose -- Best wishes, Yours faithfully,

🚀 Mission

Real World Practice

Scenario: You stayed at a hotel, but the room was dirty and the air conditioning was broken.

Task: Write a 4-part email in your notebook:

• "I am writing to express my dissatisfaction..."
• "Specifically, the room was unclean..."
• "I would like a partial refund..."
• "I look forward to your prompt reply."