The invention provides a lubricating composition containing an oil of lubricating viscosity and a compound obtained/obtainable by a process comprising reacting a glycolic acid, a 2-halo-acetic acid, or a lactic acid, or an alkali or alkaline metal salts thereof, (typically glycolic acid or a 2-halo-acetic acid) with at least one member selected from the group consisting of an amine, an alcohol, and an aminoalcohol. The invention further relates to the use of the lubricating composition in an internal combustion engine.