receive a text

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "receive a text" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the action of getting a text message on a mobile device. Example: "I was surprised to receive a text from my old friend after so many years."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

50 human-written examples

We receive a text message.

The Economist

I receive a text from Ayesha.

The Guardian

Later that day, I receive a text message confirming receipt of the amount.

The Guardian - Opinion

Those at high risk will also receive a text message reminding them to visit their GP.

The Guardian

It was not unusual to receive a text from her at 11 30 p.m.

The New York Times

It is satisfying to receive a text to say your blood has just been used.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

They were randomly selected to receive a text-message or a telephone call reminder one day before the planned appointment.

BMC Health Services Research

Just over a week ago, I received a text message from my brother Pete.

The Guardian - Opinion

He had just received a text.

The New Yorker

I received a text from an unknown number.

The New Yorker

Just then, Kate received a text from Pyotr.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about receiving a text, consider the context. For formal communications, "receive a text message" might be preferable. In casual conversations, "get a text" is perfectly acceptable.

Common error

Avoid consistently using passive constructions like "a text was received". While grammatically correct, it can make your writing sound impersonal and less engaging. Opt for active voice constructions such as "I receive a text" for a more direct style.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "receive a text" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of getting a text message. It's a common way to describe the act of receiving a digital communication, supported by numerous examples in Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Academia

13%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Science

4%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "receive a text" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression denoting the action of getting a text message. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and highlights its common usage across diverse contexts. While "receive" might lean towards formality, the phrase maintains a neutral register, making it suitable for both casual and professional communications. Alternatives such as "get a text" offer stylistic variations, but understanding the nuances of formality ensures effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

get a text message

Replaces "receive" with "get", a more informal synonym, and clarifies "text" to "text message" for added clarity.

a text is received

A passive construction, emphasizing the action rather than the actor.

be sent a text

Uses passive voice to emphasize the sender rather than the receiver.

have a text delivered

Focuses on the delivery aspect of the text message.

obtain a text

Replaces "receive" with "obtain", suggesting a more formal acquisition.

get a message

A broader term that encompasses more than just text messages.

be in receipt of a text

Uses a more formal phrasing to indicate receiving a text.

a text arrives

Shifts focus to the arrival of the text.

a message comes through

Indicates the successful transmission of a message.

a text pops up

Emphasizes the sudden appearance of a text notification.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "receive a text"?

You can use alternatives like "get a text message", "be sent a text", or "have a text delivered" depending on the context.

Is it more formal to say "receive a text message" or "get a text message"?

Generally, "receive a text message" is considered more formal than "get a text message". "Receive" is a more formal verb choice than "get".

What's the difference between "receive a text" and "send a text"?

"Receive a text" means to get a text message from someone, while "send a text" means to transmit a text message to someone else. They are opposite actions.

How to use "receive a text" in a sentence?

You can use "receive a text" to describe the action of getting a text. For example: "I often receive a text from my friend in the morning".