receive - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
receive Word Meanings
- to get something handed to you
- to accept something given
- to welcome someone or something.
receive Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
receive Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/rɪˈsiːv/
US
/rɪˈsiːv/
receive Word Etymology
re- = back, ceive = take; origin: Latin → Old French → English. Imagine someone reaching out with hands to take a gift back into their possession.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I reach out, my fingers moving to catch the envelope as it slips from the courier’s hand. I tilt my head, adjust my grip, and hold it steady for a moment before I pull it closer. The act of accepting it feels like a small shift inside, a choice to keep what is offered and welcome it. In everyday use, I set it on the table, and the meaning settles: this is something handed to me, something I choose to receive.
Real Context
Receive is a verb used for the act of getting something that is offered or given to you, often by another person or by a process. It covers physical take, such as receiving a package, as well as more abstract receptions like receiving information, news, or a compliment. It is usually more formal than simply 'get' and can imply permission or acceptance is involved, for example receiving a gift with gratitude, or receiving an invitation. It also appears in passive constructions, like 'you will be received at the door' in some contexts, and in phrases such as 'receive a response' or 'receive a standing ovation'. Learners should distinguish from 'accept' (agree to take) and 'take' (physically grab).
Usage Reminders
- Use receive for things offered to you; not just things you grab. Reserve receive for formal or neutral contexts; use get for casual gain. Distinguish receive from accept when consent is involved. Be aware of passive structures like be received or be well received. Remember common collocations: receive a gift, receive information, receive feedback. Include a direct object after receive: you receive something from someone.
Common Misconceptions
- Receive always means physically taking something from someone
- Receive equals get in all contexts
- Be received only refers to welcome or hospitality contexts
- Confuse receive with accept when there is no consent involved
- Use be received only in passive voice
Thinking Differences
English tends to use receive for both physical receipt and acceptance of offerings, but learners often mix in get or take or choose accept when consent is involved. Be mindful of register: receive can sound formal or neutral, while casual speech might use get or take.
Learning Tips
- Practice with gifts, letters, and invitations to feel the receive vs accept distinction.
- Use passive be received for formal contexts.
- Pair with collocations like receive information, receive feedback.
- Avoid overusing get in contexts of formal reception.
- Notice difference between be well received and be received warmly.
- Create a small dialogue using receiving at different events.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'receive' mean?
A.To bake
B.To obtain
C.To retrieve
D.To swim
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'receive' correctly?
A.They receive the book at the library.
B.She receive a gift from her friend.
C.I receive a pizza for dinner.
D.He receive a car for his birthday.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'receive'?
A.Destroy
B.Steal
C.Give
D.Create
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'receive'?
A.Refuse
B.Accept
C.Receive
D.Deny
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario where you might 'receive' something?
A.She bought a new car.
B.He planted a garden in the backyard.
C.He received a scholarship for his academic achievements.
D.They adopted a pet from the shelter.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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