a/the squeaky wheel gets the grease/oil
phrase
—used to say that someone who complains or causes problems is more likely to receive attention or help than someone who stays quiet and does not cause problems
Cite this Entry
“A/the squeaky wheel gets the grease/oil.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/a%2Fthe%20squeaky%20wheel%20gets%20the%20grease%2Foil. Accessed 7 Mar. 2026.
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
