Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
recipient of
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "recipient of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a person who is given something, or to refer to the thing that is given. For example: She was the proud recipient of a scholarship to pursue her studies.
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Encyclopedias
Science
Alternative expressions(1)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
57 human-written examples
Recipient of the Bronze Star.
News & Media
Borg was the recipient of numerous awards.
Encyclopedias
Joel was the recipient of various honours.
Encyclopedias
Battle was the recipient of numerous awards.
Encyclopedias
Caesar was the recipient of numerous honours.
Encyclopedias
Sternberg was the recipient of numerous honours.
Encyclopedias
Johns was the recipient of numerous honours.
Encyclopedias
Recipient of 15 Battle Stars, U.S. Navy.
News & Media
Recipient of Ford's 1972 National Conservationist Award.
News & Media
Shadbolt was the recipient of numerous honours.
Encyclopedias
Recipient of numerous film awards.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "recipient of", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being received. Specifying the received item enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.
Common error
Avoid using "recipient of" in overly passive constructions that obscure the actor giving the item. Instead of "The award was recipient of by her", prefer "She was the recipient of the award" or "She received the award".
Source & Trust
88%
Authority and reliability
4.6/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "recipient of" functions as a noun phrase modifier, specifically identifying someone or something that has received something. As noted by Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and widely used. Examples show it modifying nouns such as "awards", "honors", and "funds".
Frequent in
News & Media
47%
Encyclopedias
12%
Science
10%
Less common in
Formal & Business
5%
Wiki
2%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "recipient of" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to denote the receiver of something, whether it's an award, a benefit, or even something less tangible. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It's particularly prevalent in news, encyclopedic, and scientific contexts, and maintains a neutral to formal register. When using the phrase, it's important to ensure clarity by specifying what is being received and avoiding overly passive constructions. Alternatives such as ""beneficiary of"" or ""receiver of"" can be used to add nuance, but "recipient of" remains a solid choice for formal and clear communication.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
Receiver of
A more general term for someone who receives something.
Beneficiary of
Focuses on the positive outcome or advantage gained from receiving something.
Winner of
Implies success or competition in obtaining something.
Awardee of
Specifically relates to receiving an award or honor.
Awaradee for
Similar to "awardee of" but slightly less formal and focuses on the reason to be awarded.
Grantee of
Refers to someone who receives a grant, typically for research or projects.
Laureate of
Indicates someone who has been honored with a prestigious award.
Claimant of
Implies a formal assertion of a right to receive something.
Addressee of
Specifically denotes someone to whom a message or communication is directed.
Target of
Focuses on the destination or object to receive something.
FAQs
How can I use "recipient of" in a sentence?
The phrase "recipient of" is used to indicate someone who receives something. For example, "She was the proud "recipient of" a scholarship".
What's a good alternative to "recipient of"?
Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "beneficiary of", "receiver of", or "awardee of".
Is it correct to say "recipient for" instead of "recipient of"?
No, the correct preposition to use with "recipient" is "of". "Recipient for" is grammatically incorrect. Always use ""recipient of"".
What's the difference between "receiver" and ""recipient of""?
"Receiver" is a general term for someone who receives something. "Recipient of" is often used in more formal contexts, particularly when referring to awards, honors, or formal benefits.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
88%
Authority and reliability
4.6/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested