The 5 Most Common Nonsensical Complaints Men Have About Their Wives

I try not to complain about my wife. Neither one of us is perfect and, honestly, I cherish our life together. However, many of my friends often air their complaints about their partners when we are hanging out. Some of the things they have to say are downright ridiculous! No relationship is without its challenges, but many of their complaints are small misunderstandings (or miscommunication). Here are five of the most common gripes I’ve heard.
1. “She Takes Too Long to Get Ready”
One of the oldest complaints in the book is about how long it takes for wives to get ready. What often gets overlooked is that this time isn’t wasted—it’s spent making sure she feels confident and put together. Hair, makeup, and outfit choices are part of a routine that helps her feel her best, not just for herself but for her partner, too. Instead of rolling eyes at the wait, a little appreciation can go a long way.
2. “She’s Always On Her Phone”
Another common complaint is about how much time wives spend on their phones, whether it’s texting friends, scrolling through Instagram, or watching TikTok. However, this criticism often ignores the fact that men are equally guilty of screen time, just with different apps or games. Social media is a way for her to unwind, connect, and even find inspiration—not a sign of neglecting the relationship. Sharing a laugh over a funny video she found or showing interest in what she’s looking at can turn this complaint into a bonding opportunity.
3. “She Wants to Talk About Everything”
I’ve heard a number of guys complain about the fact that their wives want to talk things out all the time. Communication is a vital part of any healthy relationship. The fact that she wants to communicate should never be a problem. Avoiding conversations will only make things worse and could lead to feelings of resentment in your relationship. So, rather than complaining about this trait, embrace it. It could make or break your bond.
4. “She Spends Too Much Money”
Complaints about spending habits often lack context, focusing only on the purchases that are visible, like new clothes or home decor. What’s usually ignored is how much wives save through budgeting, finding deals, and managing household expenses. Financial transparency and a shared budget can eliminate this complaint by making spending visible and agreed upon. Instead of criticizing, discussing financial priorities and setting mutual goals can make money less of a stress point.
5. “She’s Too Emotional”
Labeling wives as “too emotional” is not only unfair but also dismissive of legitimate feelings and concerns. Everyone experiences emotions, but women are often criticized for expressing them more openly. In truth, showing emotion is a sign of trust and connection, not a flaw. Validating feelings instead of dismissing them leads to more meaningful conversations and fewer arguments.
It’s Time to Rethink the Complaints
The most common complaints I hear friends making about their wives are less about real issues and more about unrealistic expectations. You need to take a step back and understand why you feel annoyed by these behaviors. Rather than complaining to other people, consider how you can fix it. At the end of the day, open communication and mutual respect are key to having a happy, fulfilling relationship.
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Drew Blankenship is a former Porsche technician who writes and develops content full-time. He lives in North Carolina, where he enjoys spending time with his wife and two children. While Drew no longer gets his hands dirty modifying Porsches, he still loves motorsport and avidly watches Formula 1.