be receptive

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be receptive" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when encouraging someone to be open to new ideas, feedback, or experiences. Example: "In order to foster a collaborative environment, it's important for team members to be receptive to each other's suggestions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Huffington Post

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

We hope he'll be receptive".

The New York Times

Will your colleagues be receptive?

The Guardian - Music

Is management likely to be receptive?

The New York Times

Would more people be receptive to it?

The Guardian - Arts

"I felt our radio partners wouldn't be receptive to it".

The New York Times - Arts

They can be receptive to donor funding of new prisons.

The Guardian

It is not clear whether the Administration will be receptive.

The New Yorker

We're not certain what towns will be receptive to expansion".

The New York Times

Occasionally he mustered feeble attempts to be receptive.

The New York Times

Many federal judges may not be receptive to allowing cameras in their courtrooms.

The New York Times

Then there was the worry that if they did find him, he might not be receptive.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When asking for feedback, explicitly state that you want others to "be receptive" to your ideas; this sets a positive tone and encourages open discussion.

Common error

Don't mistake being "receptive" to ideas as necessarily agreeing with them; it simply means being open to considering different perspectives before making a decision.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be receptive" functions primarily as an imperative, urging or advising someone to adopt an open and welcoming attitude towards new ideas, information, or experiences. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correctly used in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Wiki

14%

Huffington Post

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be receptive" is a grammatically sound and very common expression used to encourage open-mindedness and a welcoming attitude. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in written English. As shown by Ludwig, it appears frequently in news and media, as well as in wiki contexts. When using this phrase, remember that being receptive does not necessarily equate to agreement, but rather a willingness to consider new perspectives and ideas. Related phrases include "be open-minded" and "be amenable", offering nuanced ways to express the concept of openness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be open-minded

Emphasizes a broad willingness to consider different perspectives.

be amenable

Highlights a willingness to agree or accept something.

be accepting

Focuses on readily taking something offered.

be responsive

Focuses on reacting positively to suggestions or requests.

be all ears

An idiom expressing strong interest in listening.

be approachable

Suggests an openness that invites interaction and discussion.

be perceptive

Implies a sensitivity to understanding and interpreting information.

be game

Suggests a willingness to try new things or experiences.

be impressionable

Highlights being easily influenced or affected by something.

be persuadable

Highlights the capacity to be convinced of something.

FAQs

How can I encourage someone to "be receptive" to my ideas?

Frame your suggestions positively, demonstrate that you've considered their perspective, and create a safe space for open discussion. Emphasize that being receptive doesn't mean immediate agreement, but a willingness to consider new ideas.

What does it mean to "be receptive" in a relationship?

In a relationship, to "be receptive" means being open to your partner's feelings, needs, and perspectives. It involves active listening, empathy, and a willingness to compromise. It's the cornerstone for healthy and fulfilling relationships.

Is it better to "be receptive" or proactive?

Both are valuable, but in different contexts. Being proactive involves taking initiative, while being "receptive" is about being open to new information and perspectives. Effective individuals balance both qualities, proactively seeking opportunities while remaining receptive to feedback and change.

What's a synonym for "be receptive"?

Alternatives include "be open-minded", "be amenable", or "be responsive", each highlighting a slightly different aspect of openness and willingness to consider new ideas.