he received

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "he received" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that someone has obtained or been given something, such as a message, gift, or award. Example: "He received a letter from his friend last week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He received no reply.

The New Yorker

He received no violations.

The New York Times

He received them promptly.

The New Yorker

He received rave reviews.

The Economist

How was he received?

The New Yorker

He received three threats.

The New Yorker

He received a diagnosis.

The New York Times

He received a 99.

The New York Times - Sports

He received numerous honours.

The Economist

He received some encouragement.

The New Yorker

He received an invitation.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using synonyms like "he obtained" or "he was awarded" to add variety to your writing and to more precisely convey the nature of the receiving.

Common error

Avoid overusing passive voice when "he received" is a more direct and active alternative. For example, instead of "The award was received by him", use "He received the award" for a stronger sentence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "he received" primarily functions as a verb phrase, where 'he' is the subject and 'received' is the main verb. It indicates that the subject has obtained or been given something. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Academia

29%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "he received" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase used to indicate that someone has obtained something. Ludwig AI analysis confirms that the phrase is widely used in news, academic, and scientific contexts. While it's generally neutral in tone, it can be replaced with synonyms like "he was given" or "he obtained" to add variety to your writing. A key best practice is to use the phrase actively to avoid passive constructions, strengthening your writing style.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

he was given

This is a more passive construction with a slightly different emphasis. Shifts from active to passive voice.

he got

This is a more informal and general way to say "he received". Changes the register to less formal.

he obtained

This suggests a more active effort to get something. Connotes effort in acquiring.

he was presented with

Suggests a formal presentation of something. Highlights the act of giving.

he acquired

Similar to obtained, but can also imply a gradual process. Implies eventual gaining of possession.

he was awarded

Implies a formal recognition or honor. Suggests a formal recognition.

he was granted

Indicates permission or authorization to receive something. Implies official permission.

he was the recipient of

Emphasizes the role of being the receiver. Highlights the receiving aspect.

he came into possession of

This is a more formal and legalistic way to say "he received". Adds a legalistic tone.

he collected

Suggests gathering something over time. Highlights the collection aspect.

FAQs

How to use "he received" in a sentence?

"He received" is used to indicate that someone was given, obtained, or experienced something. For example, "He received a promotion at work" or "He received criticism for his actions".

What can I say instead of "he received"?

You can use alternatives like "he was given", "he obtained", or "he was awarded" depending on the context.

Is "he received" formal or informal?

"He received" is generally considered neutral to slightly formal. For more informal contexts, you could use "he got". For more formal situations, consider "he was the recipient of".

What's the difference between "he received" and "he accepted"?

"He received" simply means he was given something. "He accepted" means he willingly took something that was offered. You can "receive" something without accepting it, and you can't "accept" something without receiving it first.