carp

word

Definition

A 'carp' is a type of freshwater fish. As a verb, 'to carp' means to keep complaining or criticizing about small or unimportant things.

Usage & Nuances

The noun 'carp' is most often used in fish or aquarium contexts. The verb form ('to carp') is somewhat formal or literary and less common in daily conversation. Do not confuse with 'crap' (slang for something bad). When using the verb, it's often negative: 'carp about something'.

Example Sentences

The carp swam slowly in the pond.

basic

He likes to go fishing for carp every weekend.

basic

Stop trying to carp about every little problem.

basic

People often carp about the weather, even when it's nice.

natural

Instead of helping, she just carped about my plan.

natural

I try not to carp about things that can't be changed.

natural