to receive

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to receive" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of getting or being given something, such as information, items, or messages. Example: "I am excited to receive your feedback on my proposal."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Science & Research

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

To receive a "D.M.M".

The New York Times

They agreed to receive Lipsky.

The New Yorker

They have to receive orders.

The Economist

He has yet to receive a response.

The New York Times

He had to receive a new passport.

The New York Times

He is unlikely to receive any support.

The Economist

Who should be eligible to receive funds?

The New York Times

How are we to receive this information?

The New York Times - Books

He was surprised to receive no counteroffer.

The New York Times

California expects to receive $761 million.

The New York Times - Health

Nevertheless, he continued to receive important commissions.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using synonyms like "to get" or "to obtain" for variety in your writing, especially if you're using "to receive" frequently.

Common error

Avoid constructing sentences that overuse the passive voice with "to receive". For example, instead of saying "The award was received by her", say "She received the award" for a more direct and active sentence.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "to receive" is as an infinitive verb, typically used to indicate the action of getting or being given something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used. For instance, "They have "to receive" orders." This usage shows the verb in action.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Science & Research

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to receive" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase used to denote the action of getting or being given something. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage spans from formal to neutral contexts, making it suitable for diverse writing styles. Predominantly found in News & Media and Wiki sources, it is a common phrase with many alternatives such as "to get" or "to obtain", each carrying nuanced implications. While generally acceptable, overuse of passive voice should be avoided for clearer and more impactful writing. Understanding its function and purpose allows for effective communication across various professional, academic, and general contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to get

This alternative is a more informal and direct synonym for "to receive".

to obtain

This alternative suggests a more formal or deliberate effort in acquiring something.

to acquire

This alternative implies gaining possession or control of something, often over time.

to accept

This alternative focuses on the willingness to take something offered.

to be given

This alternative emphasizes the passive nature of the action, where someone is the recipient.

to come into possession of

This alternative suggests a formal or legal acquisition.

to be the recipient of

This alternative highlights the role of being the one who gets something.

to take delivery of

This alternative is specifically used when referring to receiving goods or items.

to be awarded

This alternative is used in the context of awards, honors or recognition.

to collect

This alternative suggest a specific action to get something, like for example "to collect an award".

FAQs

What is the best way to use "to receive" in a sentence?

Use "to receive" to indicate the act of getting something. For example, "I am happy "to receive" your letter" or "The company expects "to receive" funding soon."

What can I say instead of "to receive"?

You can use alternatives like "to get", "to obtain", or "to acquire" depending on the context.

Is it more formal to use "to receive" instead of "to get"?

Yes, ""to receive"" generally carries a more formal tone than "to get". Choose ""to receive"" for professional or academic writing.

How does the context affect the choice between "to receive" and its alternatives?

The context dictates the best alternative. For example, "to accept" is suitable when something is offered, while "to obtain" suggests effort in acquiring something. "To get" is more direct and informal than ""to receive"".