received this letter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "received this letter" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when confirming the receipt of a letter or communication in both formal and informal contexts. Example: "I would like to confirm that I have received this letter and will respond shortly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

Congressional leaders have just received this letter.

The New York Times

She received this letter after his death.

The Guardian - Opinion

Von Meck may never have received this letter.

The New York Times - Arts

The Tech received this letter addressed to Salman Rushdie.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

At the time the contracted inspection service provider would have received this letter.

Independent

Please do not mention to anybody that you received this letter.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

I was horrified to receive this letter.

The Guardian

"Dear Lillian, I realize you won't receive this letter.

The New York Times - Magazine

"Everyone, if you are receiving this letter it means I am still detained," the letter begins.

The New Yorker

"I think receiving this letter affirms the work they are doing".

The Guardian

By the time you receive this letter, I'll already be on the road.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "received this letter" in formal writing, consider also acknowledging its content or intended action to provide a complete picture of your response.

Common error

Avoid using "received this letter" when referring to digital communications like emails or text messages; phrases like "got this email" or "received this message" are more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "received this letter" functions primarily as a statement of acknowledgment, indicating that someone has obtained a physical letter. As Ludwig AI confirms, this expression is commonly used and grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Academia

17%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Science

3%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "received this letter" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to acknowledge the receipt of a physical letter. As Ludwig AI points out, its usage is generally neutral, though leans towards formal, making it suitable for various contexts, especially professional and news-related communications. While alternatives like "got this letter" exist, choosing "received this letter" often lends a touch of formality and clarity. Remember to use it when referring to physical correspondence rather than digital messages. The frequency of this expression and the diverse contexts in which it appears—ranging from news articles to academic papers—underline its versatility and broad acceptance in English writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

got this letter

Simple word choice change using a more informal verb.

obtained this letter

Uses a more formal synonym for "received".

was sent this letter

Changes the sentence to passive voice.

this letter was delivered to me

Emphasizes the delivery aspect and uses passive voice.

acknowledged receipt of this letter

A more formal and business-oriented alternative.

had this letter in hand

Focuses on the physical possession of the letter.

this letter came into my possession

Formal and emphasizes possession.

I am in receipt of this letter

Very formal and somewhat archaic phrasing.

the letter arrived

Shortened version, focusing on the arrival of the letter.

I have been notified by letter

Focuses on the notification aspect rather than the physical letter.

FAQs

How can I use "received this letter" in a sentence?

You can use "received this letter" to confirm that you have obtained a physical letter. For example, "I "received this letter" yesterday and will respond to it shortly."

What can I say instead of "received this letter"?

You can use alternatives like "got this letter", "obtained this letter", or "was sent this letter" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "received this letter" or "received this email"?

"Received this letter" is appropriate for physical letters, while "received this email" is used for electronic mail. Using the correct term ensures clarity and avoids miscommunication.

What's the difference between "received this letter" and "acknowledged receipt of this letter"?

"Received this letter" simply means you obtained the letter. "Acknowledged receipt of this letter" implies you are confirming that you got it, often in a formal or business setting.