Can't change users passwd

Have an issue with a user or root changing the user's passwd.
We run the passwd command and a complex passwd is entered a message is displayed,
"passwd is based on a dictionary word."
We do have a dictionary file and I know for a fact the complex passwd is not in the list. This happens on a couple of servers and the only way to change passwd is to disable dictionarylist in /etc/default/passwd file. Any solutions to this problem?

Thanks.

Sol. 10 w/latest patchset

It doesn't have to be a dictionary word, just contain one.

some additional info:

password should have at least 8 characters with 1 special char, 1 alpha, 2 digits,2upper
for example, 7eW3jaS! , is entered as a complex pw and it flags it as dictionary passwd.

Any other ideas?

I've seen some password being managed with exactly 8 characters, no more or less..