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# Making a complaint: using the simple past tense
- URL: https://www.lessonpills.com/making-a-complaint/
- Published: 2026-06-30T18:10:53.000Z
- Updated: 2026-07-19T15:28:17.000Z
- Description: Learn to confidently explain problems and ask for a refund when returning a faulty item to a shop, using essential vocabulary and the simple past tense.
- Author: Lessonpills
- Tags: A2, Practical English, Grammar, Premium, Past tenses

## Summary

Have you ever bought something that didn't work as it should? It can be frustrating when you need to return an item to a shop. This lesson uses an article to help you learn how to explain problems and make a complaint in English, focusing on clear communication.

[![CTA Image](https://www.lessonpills.com/content/images/2026/07/icon128-2.png)](https://learn.lessonpills.com/making-a-complaint?ref=lessonpills.com) 

Ready to practise? This interactive lesson includes vocabulary, grammar, and comprehension exercises — all based on real English content. 

[Start the lesson ](https://learn.lessonpills.com/making-a-complaint?ref=lessonpills.com) 

## Vocabulary

Students will learn useful expressions for shopping problems, such as **take something back** and **not work properly**. You will also practise phrases like **proof of purchase** and **out of stock**, which are common in these situations.

## Grammar

The main grammar focus is the **simple past tense**. You will learn how to use it to describe past events, which is essential when you need to explain what happened with a faulty item you bought.

## Practical English

This lesson helps you with real-life situations like returning an item to a shop. You will practise practical phrases such as **Excuse me, I'd like to return this** and **Could I get a refund, please?** to confidently handle complaints.

## Discussion

There is a speaking activity where you can practise making complaints and discussing solutions with your classmates. This helps you use the new vocabulary and grammar in a natural conversation.

[![CTA Image](https://www.lessonpills.com/content/images/2026/07/icon128-2.png)](https://learn.lessonpills.com/making-a-complaint?ref=lessonpills.com) 

Ready to practise? This interactive lesson includes vocabulary, grammar, and comprehension exercises — all based on real English content. 

[Start the lesson ](https://learn.lessonpills.com/making-a-complaint?ref=lessonpills.com)