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B1 noun #50 most common 14 min read

receiver

Top 50

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips receiver in 30 Seconds

Explanation receiver in your Level:

At the A1 level, you should think of a 'receiver' as a part of a telephone. Imagine an old phone with a wire. The part you hold to your ear to listen and talk into is the receiver. You 'pick up the receiver' to start a call and 'put down the receiver' to end it. It is also a person who gets a simple thing, like a ball. If I throw a ball to you, you are the receiver because you catch it. It is a very simple word for someone or something that catches or gets something else. You might see this word in very basic stories about talking on the phone or playing games. Don't worry about the difficult legal or technical meanings yet. Just remember: it's the person who gets the object or the part of the phone you hold. For example: 'He picked up the receiver and said hello.' This is the most common way you will see the word as a beginner. It is a noun, which means it is a thing or a person. You can have one receiver or many receivers. In a classroom, if a teacher gives out papers, every student is a receiver of a paper. It is a helpful word to know when you are learning about basic actions like giving and taking. Always remember that the receiver is the one who 'takes' or 'gets' the item. It is the opposite of the 'giver' or the 'sender.' If you send a letter, your friend is the receiver. It is a very useful word for everyday life.

At the A2 level, 'receiver' expands to include basic electronic devices. You might have a 'radio receiver' at home that plays music. This device 'receives' signals from the air and turns them into sound. You also use this word when talking about sports. In a game like American football, the 'receiver' is the player who runs fast to catch the ball thrown by the quarterback. In your daily life, you are a 'receiver' when you get a package from a delivery person. The word comes from the verb 'receive,' which means to get something. So, a receiver is just 'a person or thing that receives.' When you are writing, you can use it to describe the person who gets an email or a gift. For example, 'The receiver of the gift was very happy.' It is important to start noticing that 'receiver' can be a person or a machine. In a simple conversation about technology, you might say, 'My TV needs a new receiver to get more channels.' This shows you understand that the word applies to gadgets too. You should also be careful with spelling: it is R-E-C-E-I-V-E-R. Remember the rule: 'E' before 'I' after the letter 'C'. This is a common mistake for students. Practice using it in sentences about your hobbies, like 'I am the receiver in my local football team' or 'I bought a new receiver for my stereo system.'

At the B1 level, you should understand that 'receiver' has several specific meanings depending on the situation. In technology, it's not just a radio; it can be a sophisticated piece of equipment like a 'satellite receiver' or an 'AV receiver' (audio-visual) that connects your speakers, TV, and game consoles. In communication, a 'receiver' is the person who listens to or reads a message. For communication to be good, the receiver must understand what the sender meant. In sports, you'll hear this word a lot in American football or tennis (the person receiving the serve). A very important B1-level context is legal and business. If a company has no money and cannot pay its bills, a court might appoint a 'receiver.' This is a professional person who takes control of the company to try and save it or sell its parts to pay back the money. This is called 'being in receivership.' You might see this in news headlines about famous companies going out of business. Also, notice the difference between 'receiver' and 'recipient.' We usually use 'recipient' for people getting awards or letters, while 'receiver' is used for more technical or formal roles. For example, you are the 'recipient' of a birthday card, but you are the 'receiver' of a radio signal. Understanding these differences helps you sound more natural in English. You can use the word 'receiver' to describe someone's role in a process, making your descriptions more precise.

At the B2 level, you are expected to use 'receiver' in more complex and formal ways. You should be comfortable using it in technical descriptions, such as explaining how a wireless mouse works using a 'USB receiver' that plugs into a computer. In business English, the term 'Official Receiver' is important; this is a government official who handles the affairs of people or companies that have gone bankrupt. You should also understand the concept of 'receiving stolen goods,' which is a specific legal term for the crime of taking items that you know were stolen. In terms of grammar, you should be able to use the word in various sentence structures, such as 'The company was placed into receivership' or 'The receiver's primary responsibility is to protect the assets.' At this level, you should also be aware of the nuances in communication theory, where the 'receiver' is responsible for 'decoding' a message. This involves not just hearing the words, but interpreting the tone, context, and intent of the sender. You might use the word in an essay about media, discussing how the 'receiver' of an advertisement might be influenced by certain colors or sounds. Your vocabulary should also include related words like 'receivable' (money owed to a business) and 'receptive' (willing to listen to new ideas). Using 'receiver' correctly in these varied contexts shows a high level of linguistic flexibility and an understanding of professional terminology.

At the C1 level, your understanding of 'receiver' should be nuanced and contextually precise. You should recognize its use in advanced fields like signal processing, where a receiver's 'sensitivity' and 'selectivity' are critical technical parameters. In legal discourse, you should understand the complexities of 'equitable receivership,' where a receiver is appointed by a court of equity to maintain property during litigation. This is a sophisticated use of the word that goes beyond simple bankruptcy. In linguistics and semiotics, you might analyze the 'receiver's role' in the construction of meaning, exploring how different audiences (receivers) interpret the same text in vastly different ways based on their cultural background. You should also be familiar with the word's use in historical contexts, such as the 'receiver general,' a high-ranking financial officer in some governments. When writing, you should choose between 'receiver,' 'recipient,' 'addressee,' and 'beneficiary' with total confidence, knowing exactly which word fits the register and tone of your piece. For instance, in a formal academic paper, you might refer to the 'intended receiver of the pedagogical intervention.' Your ability to use the word in idiomatic expressions and complex metaphorical ways is also expected. For example, describing a person as a 'receiver of wisdom' implies a certain passivity or traditional student-teacher dynamic. At this level, 'receiver' is not just a noun; it is a tool for precise technical, legal, and theoretical expression.

At the C2 level, you possess a masterly command of the word 'receiver' and its various specialized applications. You understand the intricate legal frameworks surrounding 'administrative receivership' and how it differs from 'liquidation' or 'administration' in different jurisdictions like the UK, the US, or Australia. In the field of telecommunications engineering, you can discuss the 'signal-to-noise ratio' at the receiver end and the mathematical algorithms used for 'error correction' in digital receivers. You are aware of the word's etymological roots in the Old French 'receveur' and how its meaning has branched out over centuries from a simple 'one who takes' to a highly specific technical and legal term. In literary analysis, you might discuss the 'implied receiver' of a poem, examining how the text constructs an ideal listener. You can use the word in highly formal or archaic contexts without hesitation, such as referring to a 'receiver of wrecks' (an official who deals with shipwrecks). Your usage is characterized by absolute precision; you would never confuse a 'receiver' with a 'recipient' unless the ambiguity was intentional. You also understand the psychological aspects of being a 'receiver' in social dynamics, perhaps in the context of 'transactional analysis.' At this level, you can navigate the most complex technical manuals, legal documents, and philosophical treatises where 'receiver' appears, fully grasping the subtle implications and connotations the word carries in each specific environment. Your mastery allows you to use the word as a bridge between technical hardware and abstract human experience.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

receiver in 30 Seconds

A receiver is a person or device that takes in something sent, ranging from physical packages and sports balls to electronic signals and legal responsibilities.
In technology, it refers to equipment like radios, TVs, or satellite dishes that convert incoming data into sounds, images, or usable information for the user.
In sports, particularly American football, it is a specific player position whose primary role is to catch forward passes from the quarterback during a game.
In law and finance, a receiver is a court-appointed official who manages the property and assets of a company that is unable to pay its debts.

The term receiver is a multifaceted noun that functions primarily in three distinct domains: technology, interpersonal communication, and specialized professional fields like law or sports. At its most fundamental level, a receiver is an entity—whether mechanical, electronic, or human—that takes in something sent from another source. In the realm of electronics, a receiver is the critical component of a communication system that captures incoming signals, such as radio waves or digital data packets, and translates them into a format that a human can perceive, such as sound through a speaker or an image on a television screen. This technological definition has evolved from the early days of telegraphy to the sophisticated satellite and wireless receivers we use today. Beyond the mechanical, the word describes a person who is the destination for an object, a message, or an action. For instance, in a simple act of gift-giving, the person opening the box is the receiver. This role is essential in the 'Sender-Message-Receiver' model of communication theory, which posits that communication is only successful if the receiver accurately decodes the information sent by the transmitter. In more specialized contexts, such as American football, a receiver is a player specifically tasked with catching forward passes, requiring high levels of coordination and speed. In the legal and financial world, a receiver is a person appointed by a court to manage the property or finances of a company that is insolvent or bankrupt, ensuring that creditors are treated fairly. Understanding the word requires recognizing whether the context is technical, social, or professional.

Electronic Device: A piece of equipment that converts signals into a usable form, such as a radio receiver or a stereo receiver that powers speakers.
Human Recipient: A person who accepts or takes something that has been delivered, sent, or given by another individual or organization.
Legal Appointee: An official person or entity legally authorized to take control of assets or property during bankruptcy proceedings.

The technician adjusted the satellite receiver to ensure the signal was clear for the live broadcast.

Historically, the most common physical association with this word was the telephone receiver—the part of the phone you hold to your ear and speak into. Although modern smartphones have integrated these components into a single sleek body, the terminology persists in technical manuals and older literature. When using the word in a modern context, it is often paired with descriptors to clarify its function. For example, a 'digital receiver' refers to home theater equipment, while an 'official receiver' refers to a government officer in bankruptcy cases. The versatility of the word allows it to bridge the gap between abstract concepts of receiving information and the concrete reality of receiving a physical package. It is a word that emphasizes the passive or receptive end of a transaction, contrasting sharply with the active 'sender' or 'transmitter.' In social settings, being a 'good receiver' of feedback is considered a valuable soft skill, implying an openness to listening and internalizing what others say. Thus, the word moves from the cold hardware of a radio to the warm, complex dynamics of human interaction and professional responsibility.

As the primary receiver of the inheritance, she had to consult with several lawyers to manage the estate.

The old radio receiver hummed with static before finally tuning into the local station.

The court-appointed receiver took over the company's operations to prevent further financial loss.

He picked up the telephone receiver and waited for the dial tone before calling his mother.

Synonym: Recipient: Often used interchangeably when referring to people, though 'recipient' is more common for awards and letters.
Synonym: Handset: Specifically refers to the physical part of a telephone that contains the receiver and transmitter.

Using the word receiver correctly depends heavily on the grammatical context and the specific meaning intended. As a countable noun, it almost always requires an article (a, an, the) or a possessive pronoun (my, his, their). When discussing technology, the word often acts as the direct object of verbs like 'connect,' 'repair,' 'tune,' or 'install.' For example, 'I need to connect the receiver to the television.' In this case, the receiver is the physical hub of the entertainment system. When referring to a person, the word often appears in prepositional phrases starting with 'of,' such as 'the receiver of the message' or 'the receiver of the stolen goods.' This latter example is particularly common in legal discussions, where 'receiving stolen property' is a specific crime. In such a context, the receiver is the person who takes possession of items they know were obtained illegally. This demonstrates how the word can carry significant weight in formal and legal writing.

Subject Position: The receiver caught the ball in the end zone, scoring the winning touchdown for the home team.
Object Position: The company was placed into the hands of a receiver after it failed to pay its debts for six months.

She replaced the receiver on the hook with a heavy sigh after the difficult conversation ended.

In technical writing, the word is often part of compound nouns or complex descriptions. You might read about a 'dual-channel receiver' or an 'infrared receiver.' In these instances, the word is modified by adjectives that specify the type of signal it is designed to handle. When writing about sports, the word is frequently used without much elaboration because the context of the game makes its meaning clear. 'The quarterback looked for his favorite receiver' is a standard sentence in sports journalism. It is also important to note the difference between 'receiver' and 'recipient.' While both can refer to a person getting something, 'receiver' is often used when the process is mechanical or formal (like receiving a signal or being a receiver in bankruptcy), whereas 'recipient' is more common for personal or honorary items like letters, emails, or awards. Using 'receiver' in a sentence about a Nobel Prize might sound slightly unnatural compared to 'recipient.' However, in the context of a will or a legal trust, 'receiver' or 'beneficiary' would be more appropriate. Mastering these nuances ensures that your writing sounds professional and precise.

A wireless receiver allows you to use your mouse without being tethered to the computer by a cable.

The receiver of the scholarship was required to maintain a high grade point average throughout the year.

During the experiment, the receiver recorded the data transmitted from the sensor in the deep sea.

The tennis player waited at the baseline, ready to act as the receiver for the opponent's powerful serve.

Common Pattern: 'The receiver of...': Used to identify the person getting a specific object or piece of information (e.g., the receiver of the email).
Common Pattern: 'Put down the receiver': A classic phrase meaning to hang up a landline telephone.

The word receiver is heard in a variety of environments, ranging from the high-stakes atmosphere of a courtroom to the casual setting of a living room. In the world of consumer electronics, you will frequently encounter this word when shopping for home theater systems. A salesperson might ask, 'Are you looking for a 5.1 or a 7.1 channel receiver?' In this context, the receiver is the 'brain' of the home cinema, managing audio and video inputs. Similarly, in the tech industry, engineers discuss 'signal receivers' when designing smartphones, Wi-Fi routers, and satellite dishes. If you work in logistics or a warehouse, you might hear about the 'receiving department' or a 'receiving clerk,' though the person themselves is rarely called 'the receiver' in casual conversation; instead, they are 'the person receiving the shipment.' However, the paperwork involved will often list the 'receiver's name' as a required field. This highlights the word's prevalence in formal documentation and business processes.

Sports Broadcasting: Commentators often shout, 'What a catch by the receiver!' during American football games, referring to the player's athletic feat.
Legal News: News reports about corporate fraud or bankruptcy often mention that a 'receiver has been appointed' to oversee the liquidation of assets.

The radio host reminded listeners that they needed a digital receiver to pick up the new high-definition frequency.

Another common place to hear the word is in the context of old-fashioned telecommunications. While landlines are less common now, the phrase 'pick up the receiver' is still used in movies, books, and by older generations. It evokes a specific image of a physical handset connected by a coiled cord. In the legal field, 'receivership' is a common term. You might hear a lawyer say, 'The company is in receivership,' which is a formal way of saying it is being managed by a court-appointed receiver because it cannot pay its debts. This is a serious situation that often precedes the total closure of a business. In the world of science and research, particularly in astronomy, 'radio receivers' are massive devices used to listen to signals from distant stars and galaxies. Scientists at observatories like SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) spend their careers working with incredibly sensitive receivers. Whether it is a sports fan cheering for a touchdown or a scientist searching for life in the universe, the word 'receiver' is central to their vocabulary, representing the essential act of catching or collecting something valuable.

The GPS receiver in the car lost its connection while driving through the long mountain tunnel.

In the courtroom, the receiver presented a detailed report on the failing company's remaining assets.

The quarterback threw a perfect spiral, but the receiver dropped it at the last second.

You can hear the caller's voice clearly through the receiver, but the microphone seems to be broken.

Workplace Context: 'Please list the name of the receiver on the shipping manifest to avoid any delivery errors.'
Academic Context: 'In this communication model, the receiver must decode the message encoded by the sender.'

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with the word receiver is confusing it with the word 'recipient.' While they are synonyms in many contexts, they are not always interchangeable. 'Recipient' is generally preferred for people who receive intangible things like praise, awards, or honors, as well as for those who receive letters or emails. Using 'receiver' for a Nobel Prize winner sounds slightly clinical or technical. Another common error involves the spelling; the 'i before e except after c' rule applies here (r-e-c-e-i-v-e-r). Many people mistakenly write 'reciever,' which is incorrect. Additionally, learners often confuse 'receiver' with 'receipt.' A 'receipt' is the piece of paper or digital confirmation proving that a transaction has occurred, whereas the 'receiver' is the person or device involved in the transaction. Confusing these two can lead to significant misunderstandings in business and retail settings.

Receiver vs. Recipient: Use 'recipient' for awards and letters; use 'receiver' for signals, phone handsets, and legal appointees.
Receiver vs. Receipt: 'Receiver' is a person or device; 'receipt' is a document proving payment.

Incorrect: He was the receiver of the 'Employee of the Month' award. (Better: recipient)

In the context of technology, a mistake often made is calling a 'transmitter' a 'receiver.' A transmitter sends the signal out, while the receiver takes it in. If you are setting up a wireless system and you plug the cables into the wrong device, the system will not work. In sports, specifically American football, fans sometimes confuse the 'receiver' with the 'tight end.' While a tight end can receive passes, the term 'receiver' (or wide receiver) refers to a specific position on the field. In legal contexts, confusing a 'receiver' with a 'liquidator' is a common technical error. A receiver manages the property to pay off specific debts, while a liquidator's job is to wind up the company entirely and distribute all remaining assets. While these roles overlap, they are legally distinct. Finally, ensure you don't use 'receiver' when you mean 'receptionist.' A receptionist is a person who greets visitors in an office, while a receiver is a person who receives something sent. These small distinctions are crucial for clear and accurate communication in English.

Incorrect: I need a receiver for my coffee to prove I paid. (Correct: receipt)

Incorrect: The receiver at the front desk told me to wait. (Correct: receptionist)

Incorrect: The radio receiver is broadcasting the signal to the whole city. (Correct: transmitter)

Incorrect: I am the receiver of this email. (Better: recipient)

Technical Confusion: Using 'receiver' for a device that only amplifies sound without catching a signal (that's just an amplifier).
Social Confusion: Using 'receiver' to describe someone's personality (e.g., 'She is a good receiver' sounds odd; 'She is receptive' is better).

When looking for alternatives to receiver, it is essential to consider the specific context of use. In the most general sense, 'recipient' is the closest synonym when referring to a person who gets something. However, 'recipient' carries a slightly more formal and personal tone, often used for gifts, letters, and awards. If you are talking about someone who benefits from something, 'beneficiary' is a powerful alternative, especially in legal, insurance, or financial contexts. For example, 'She was the primary beneficiary of the will.' In the world of technology, 'tuner' is often used as a synonym for a radio or television receiver, specifically referring to the part of the device that selects a particular frequency. 'Handset' is the specific term for the part of a telephone that you hold, which contains both the receiver and the transmitter. In sports, 'catcher' is used in baseball, but it is a distinct position from a 'receiver' in football, so they are not interchangeable across different sports.

Recipient vs. Receiver: Recipient is for honors and mail; Receiver is for signals, sports, and legal roles.
Beneficiary vs. Receiver: Beneficiary implies gaining an advantage or profit; Receiver is more neutral about possession.
Tuner vs. Receiver: A tuner selects the signal; a receiver often includes a tuner plus an amplifier and speakers.

The addressee of the package was not home when the courier arrived to deliver it.

In communication theory, the word 'decoder' is sometimes used as a synonym for receiver, emphasizing the cognitive process of understanding a message. In the context of receiving stolen goods, 'fence' is a slang term for a person who knowingly receives and sells stolen property. In a more general business sense, 'consignee' is a formal term used in shipping and logistics to denote the person to whom a shipment is addressed. If you are talking about a device that picks up a signal, 'sensor' might be a more accurate term if the device is detecting physical changes (like heat or light) rather than complex electronic signals. 'Collector' can also be used if the person is actively gathering items rather than just being the destination for them. Choosing the right word among these options depends on whether you want to emphasize the act of getting, the benefit received, the technical process involved, or the legal status of the person. By expanding your vocabulary with these alternatives, you can make your descriptions more vivid and precise.

The consignee must sign the bill of lading before the cargo can be released from the port.

The satellite dish acts as a giant receiver for signals coming from space.

He is the beneficiary of a trust fund set up by his late grandfather.

The handset of the vintage phone was made of heavy black bakelite.

Slang: Fence: A person who buys stolen goods from thieves and sells them to unsuspecting customers.
Formal: Addressee: The person to whom a letter or package is addressed.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

In the 14th century, a 'receiver' was specifically a tax collector or an official who gathered money for a lord. The technical meaning for radio devices didn't appear until the late 19th century with the invention of the telegraph and telephone.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /rɪˈsiːvə(r)/

US /rɪˈsiːvər/

Second syllable: ri-CEE-ver

Rhymes With

believer achiever deceiver weaver cleaver beaver fever lever

Common Errors

Pronouncing it as 'RE-cee-ver' (stressing the first syllable).
Confusing the 'v' sound with a 'b' sound in some languages.
Mispronouncing the 'ei' as a short 'e' instead of a long 'ee'.
Dropping the 'r' in American English where it should be rhotic.
Adding an extra syllable like 're-cei-vi-er'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

The word is easy to recognize but has many different meanings in different texts.

Writing 4/5

Spelling 'ei' correctly and choosing between 'receiver' and 'recipient' can be tricky.

Speaking 2/5

Pronunciation is straightforward once the stress is learned.

Listening 3/5

Can be confused with 'receipt' or 'reception' in fast speech.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

receive get phone radio give

Learn Next

recipient receivership transmission beneficiary fiduciary

Advanced

transducer insolvency liquidation semiotics transceiver

Grammar to Know

I before E except after C

r-e-c-e-i-v-e-r (The 'e' comes before 'i' because it follows 'c').

Agentive Suffix -er

The suffix '-er' is added to the verb 'receive' to create the noun for the person/thing that performs the action.

Countable Noun Usage

You must use 'a' or 'the' (e.g., 'I bought a receiver,' not 'I bought receiver').

Passive Voice with Receiver

The ball was caught by the receiver (The receiver is the agent in the by-phrase).

Prepositional Phrases with 'of'

The receiver of the stolen goods (Identifying the specific role).

Examples by Level

He picked up the phone receiver.

Il a décroché le combiné du téléphone.

The word 'receiver' is the object of the verb 'picked up'.

The receiver of the ball was fast.

Le receveur du ballon était rapide.

Used with 'of' to show who gets the object.

I am the receiver of a gift.

Je suis le destinataire d'un cadeau.

A1 level uses 'receiver' as a simple noun for a person.

Put the receiver back on the phone.

Reposez le combiné sur le téléphone.

Common imperative sentence.

The radio receiver is small.

Le récepteur radio est petit.

Adjective 'small' modifies the noun 'receiver'.

Who is the receiver of the letter?

Qui est le destinataire de la lettre ?

Interrogative sentence structure.

The receiver is black.

Le combiné est noir.

Simple subject-verb-adjective pattern.

She is a good receiver.

Elle est une bonne receveuse.

Using 'good' to describe the person's ability.

The new TV receiver has many channels.

Le nouveau récepteur TV a beaucoup de chaînes.

Refers to a piece of electronic equipment.

The football receiver caught the pass.

Le receveur de football a attrapé la passe.

Specific sports terminology.

Please sign here as the receiver.

Veuillez signer ici en tant que destinataire.

Used in a professional/service context.

The radio receiver picks up local stations.

Le récepteur radio capte les stations locales.

Verb 'picks up' describes the receiver's function.

He bought a wireless receiver for his mouse.

Il a acheté un récepteur sans fil pour sa souris.

Compound noun: 'wireless receiver'.

The receiver of the email didn't reply.

Le destinataire de l'e-mail n'a pas répondu.

Negative past simple tense.

We need a better receiver for the signal.

Nous avons besoin d'un meilleur récepteur pour le signal.

Comparative adjective 'better' used here.

The receiver was broken, so I couldn't hear.

Le combiné était cassé, donc je ne pouvais pas entendre.

Cause and effect sentence using 'so'.

The company was handed over to a receiver.

L'entreprise a été remise à un syndic.

Passive voice: 'was handed over'.

An AV receiver is the heart of a home theater.

Un amplificateur home-cinéma est le cœur d'un home cinéma.

Metaphorical use: 'the heart of'.

The receiver of the scholarship must study hard.

Le bénéficiaire de la bourse doit étudier dur.

Modal verb 'must' shows obligation.

The satellite receiver was mounted on the roof.

Le récepteur satellite était monté sur le toit.

Past participle 'mounted' used as an adjective.

In communication, the receiver decodes the message.

En communication, le récepteur décode le message.

Technical terminology in social science.

The official receiver managed the bankruptcy.

Le séquestre officiel a géré la faillite.

Specific legal title.

He replaced the receiver and walked away.

Il a raccroché le combiné et s'est éloigné.

Two actions connected by 'and'.

The receiver's job is to catch the ball.

Le travail du receveur est d'attraper le ballon.

Possessive form: 'receiver's'.

The court appointed a receiver to liquidate the assets.

Le tribunal a nommé un séquestre pour liquider les actifs.

Infinitive of purpose: 'to liquidate'.

A digital receiver converts signals into high-quality audio.

Un récepteur numérique convertit les signaux en audio de haute qualité.

Present simple for a general fact.

The receiver of the stolen goods was arrested.

Le receleur des objets volés a été arrêté.

Legal phrase: 'receiver of stolen goods'.

The quarterback's pass was aimed at the wide receiver.

La passe du quart-arrière visait le receveur éloigné.

Passive construction with 'was aimed at'.

The stereo receiver has multiple inputs for different devices.

L'ampli-tuner possède plusieurs entrées pour différents appareils.

Plural noun 'inputs' following the receiver.

The receiver of the feedback took it very well.

Le destinataire des commentaires l'a très bien pris.

Abstract use of 'receiver'.

The GPS receiver in the phone is very accurate.

Le récepteur GPS du téléphone est très précis.

Adjective 'accurate' describes the receiver's performance.

The firm went into receivership after the scandal.

L'entreprise a été mise sous séquestre après le scandale.

Noun 'receivership' derived from 'receiver'.

The sensitivity of the radio receiver is paramount in deep-space exploration.

La sensibilité du récepteur radio est primordiale dans l'exploration de l'espace lointain.

Academic tone with 'paramount'.

The receiver general oversaw the distribution of public funds.

Le receveur général a supervisé la distribution des fonds publics.

Historical/Formal title.

In this model, the receiver's cultural background influences the decoding process.

Dans ce modèle, l'arrière-plan culturel du récepteur influence le processus de décodage.

Theoretical analysis of communication.

The court-appointed receiver acted as a neutral third party.

Le séquestre nommé par le tribunal a agi en tant que tierce partie neutre.

Complex noun phrase with multiple modifiers.

The infrared receiver must be in the direct line of sight of the remote.

Le récepteur infrarouge doit être dans la ligne de mire directe de la télécommande.

Technical requirement using 'must be'.

The receiver of the award gave a moving speech about perseverance.

Le lauréat du prix a prononcé un discours émouvant sur la persévérance.

Formal narrative style.

The receiver's inability to process the signal led to a total blackout.

L'incapacité du récepteur à traiter le signal a conduit à un black-out total.

Noun 'inability' followed by an infinitive.

The legal definition of a receiver varies significantly between jurisdictions.

La définition légale d'un séquestre varie considérablement d'une juridiction à l'autre.

Comparative analysis in a formal register.

The efficacy of the receiver is contingent upon the signal-to-noise ratio being maintained.

L'efficacité du récepteur dépend du maintien du rapport signal/bruit.

Highly technical vocabulary: 'efficacy,' 'contingent upon'.

The administrative receiver was tasked with maximizing the return for secured creditors.

Le séquestre administratif a été chargé de maximiser le rendement pour les créanciers garantis.

Specific financial/legal terminology.

The poem's 'ideal receiver' is one who possesses an intimate knowledge of classical mythology.

Le 'récepteur idéal' du poème est celui qui possède une connaissance intime de la mythologie classique.

Literary theory context.

The receiver of wrecks is responsible for all unclaimed property found on the shoreline.

Le receveur des épaves est responsable de tous les biens non réclamés trouvés sur le rivage.

Obscure legal/maritime title.

Digital receivers employ sophisticated algorithms to mitigate the effects of multipath interference.

Les récepteurs numériques utilisent des algorithmes sophistiqués pour atténuer les effets des interférences par trajets multiples.

Advanced engineering terminology.

The receiver's role in the semiotic chain is to interpret signs within a specific cultural matrix.

Le rôle du récepteur dans la chaîne sémiotique est d'interpréter les signes au sein d'une matrice culturelle spécifique.

Philosophical/Linguistic register.

The receiver of the stolen property claimed ignorance of its illicit origins.

Le receleur des biens volés a prétendu ignorer leurs origines illicites.

Formal legal narrative.

The receiver general's report highlighted systemic inefficiencies in the treasury.

Le rapport du receveur général a mis en évidence des inefficacités systémiques au sein du trésor.

High-level bureaucratic English.

Common Collocations

wide receiver

telephone receiver

satellite receiver

official receiver

stereo receiver

receiver of stolen goods

digital receiver

wireless receiver

AV receiver

appointed receiver

Common Phrases

pick up the receiver

— To answer a telephone call or prepare to make one. It refers to the physical action of lifting the handset.

He didn't even have time to pick up the receiver before the line went dead.

put down the receiver

— To end a telephone call by placing the handset back on its base. It is a synonym for 'hanging up'.

She put down the receiver and burst into tears.

in receivership

— The state of a company being managed by a receiver because it is bankrupt. It indicates serious financial trouble.

The local factory is in receivership and might close next month.

the intended receiver

— The person or thing that was supposed to get a message or object. It is used when something goes to the wrong place.

The email never reached its intended receiver due to a typo.

receiver of the year

— An award given to the best pass-catcher in a football league. It is a common sports accolade.

He was named the high school receiver of the year.

replace the receiver

— Another way to say 'put down the receiver' or 'hang up'. It sounds slightly more formal.

Please replace the receiver carefully so it doesn't break.

signal receiver

— A general term for any device that detects and processes electronic signals. It is used in physics and engineering.

The signal receiver was too far from the tower to work.

gift receiver

— The person who is given a present. It is used in marketing and social studies about giving habits.

The gift receiver should always send a thank-you note.

radio receiver

— A device that receives radio waves and converts them into sound. It is the full name for a 'radio'.

The old radio receiver still works perfectly.

primary receiver

— The first choice for a quarterback to throw to, or the main person getting a benefit. It indicates priority.

She was the primary receiver of the family's attention.

Often Confused With

receiver vs recipient

Recipient is for people getting awards/mail; receiver is for signals/sports/legal roles.

receiver vs receipt

A receipt is a document; a receiver is a person or device.

receiver vs receptionist

A receptionist is a person who greets you; a receiver is a person who gets something sent.

Idioms & Expressions

"on the receiving end"

— To be the person who is subjected to something unpleasant, like criticism or an attack. It emphasizes the passive role.

I don't want to be on the receiving end of his anger.

informal

"to be in receivership"

— Technically a legal term, but used idiomatically to mean being under the control of someone else due to failure. It implies a loss of autonomy.

After the scandal, his reputation was essentially in receivership.

formal/metaphorical

"catch-all receiver"

— A person or thing that takes in everything, regardless of quality or type. It suggests a lack of discrimination.

This drawer has become a catch-all receiver for junk.

informal

"open receiver"

— In sports, a player who is not being guarded and is ready to catch the ball. Metaphorically, someone ready for new ideas.

The quarterback found an open receiver just in time.

neutral

"passive receiver"

— Someone who accepts information without questioning it or acting upon it. It is often used critically in education.

Students should not be passive receivers of knowledge.

academic

"the receiver of the baton"

— In a relay race, the person taking the stick. Metaphorically, someone taking over a responsibility.

He is the next receiver of the baton for the family business.

neutral

"wired receiver"

— A person who is naturally inclined to listen or wait for instructions. It describes a personality trait.

She is a wired receiver; she never acts without being told.

informal

"broken receiver"

— A metaphor for a failure in communication where the listener does not understand. It highlights a breakdown in dialogue.

Talking to him is like talking to a broken receiver.

informal

"official receiver"

— Though a job title, it's used to describe someone who cleans up a mess left by others. It implies a heavy burden.

I feel like the official receiver of all the office drama.

informal/sarcastic

"to play receiver"

— To take a secondary, supporting role in a project or relationship. It contrasts with 'playing lead'.

In this project, I'm happy to play receiver and follow your lead.

informal

Easily Confused

receiver vs reception

They share the same root and are both nouns.

Reception is the quality of the signal or a party; receiver is the device that gets the signal.

The receiver has poor reception in this area.

receiver vs transmitter

They are the two ends of a communication system.

Transmitter sends the signal; receiver gets the signal.

The transmitter is on the hill, but the receiver is in my house.

receiver vs perceiver

Similar sound and both involve taking something in.

Perceiver is about mental awareness/senses; receiver is about physical or electronic possession.

He is a keen perceiver of human emotions.

receiver vs liquidator

Both are legal roles in company failure.

A receiver manages assets for creditors; a liquidator closes the company down completely.

The receiver tried to save the business, but the liquidator had to sell it.

receiver vs handset

Both refer to parts of a telephone.

Handset is the whole piece you hold; receiver is specifically the part you listen to.

He held the handset tight, pressing the receiver to his ear.

Sentence Patterns

The [noun] is [adjective].

The receiver is black.

I have a [noun].

I have a radio receiver.

The [noun] of the [noun] is [adjective].

The receiver of the gift is happy.

The company was placed into [noun].

The company was placed into receivership.

The [noun] is responsible for [verb-ing].

The receiver is responsible for liquidating assets.

The efficacy of the [noun] depends on [noun].

The efficacy of the receiver depends on signal strength.

He picked up the [noun].

He picked up the receiver.

The [noun] caught the [noun].

The receiver caught the ball.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Common in sports, law, and technology; declining in daily phone-related speech.

Common Mistakes

Using 'reciever' instead of 'receiver'. → receiver
The rule is 'i before e except after c'. Since there is a 'c', the 'e' must come first.
Saying 'I am the receiver of a letter'. → I am the recipient of a letter.
While 'receiver' is okay, 'recipient' is the standard word for someone getting mail or awards.
Confusing 'receiver' with 'receipt'. → I need a receipt for my purchase.
A 'receipt' is the paper proof of payment; a 'receiver' is a person or device.
Calling a transmitter a 'receiver'. → The radio station has a powerful transmitter.
A transmitter sends the signal; a receiver gets it. They are opposites.
Using 'receiver' instead of 'receptionist'. → The receptionist greeted me at the door.
A receptionist is a specific job title for someone at a front desk; a receiver is anyone who receives something.

Tips

The 'C' Rule

Always remember that 'e' comes before 'i' in receiver because it follows the letter 'c'. This is one of the most common spelling mistakes in English.

Choose 'Recipient' for People

If you are talking about someone getting a prize, a letter, or a nice gesture, use 'recipient.' It sounds much warmer and more natural than 'receiver.'

Football Context

In American football, 'receiver' is a specific job. If you call a player a 'receiver,' everyone will know you mean the person catching the long passes.

Business Warning

If you hear that a company is 'in receivership,' it is a very bad sign. It means they are almost bankrupt and someone else is now in charge of their money.

Signal Flow

Remember that a receiver is the end of the line. It takes the signal and makes it useful. The transmitter is the start of the line that sends the signal out.

Noun vs. Verb

Don't confuse the noun 'receiver' with the verb 'receive.' You 'receive' a package, and once you have it, you are the 'receiver' of that package.

Stress the 'SEE'

Make sure the middle part of the word is the loudest: ri-CEE-ver. This helps people distinguish it from other similar-sounding words.

Formal Documents

In shipping and business forms, you will often see a box for 'Receiver.' This is where you write the name of the person getting the delivery.

Be an Active Receiver

In communication theory, being a good receiver means listening carefully and trying to understand the sender's true meaning.

Old Phones

Even though we use smartphones now, the phrase 'pick up the receiver' is still used in stories. It's a great way to add a classic feel to your writing.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Remember: A Receiver is a 'Re-Seizer'—someone who 'seizes' or 'catches' what is sent back to them. Also, remember 'C-E-I': 'C' for 'Catching' 'E'very 'I'tem.

Visual Association

Imagine a giant baseball glove (the receiver) catching a glowing lightning bolt (the signal) coming from a radio tower.

Word Web

Signal Handset Catch Bankruptcy Football Radio Recipient Accept

Challenge

Try to use the word 'receiver' in three different ways today: once about a person, once about a piece of technology, and once about a sports game.

Word Origin

The word 'receiver' comes from the Middle English 'receivour,' which was borrowed from the Old French 'receveur.' This, in turn, derived from the verb 'recevoir,' which comes from the Latin 'recipere.'

Original meaning: The original Latin 'recipere' meant 'to take back' or 'to take to oneself' (re- 'back' + capere 'to take').

Indo-European (Latinate/Romance branch via French).

Cultural Context

Be careful when using 'receiver' in legal contexts; it implies a company is failing, which can be a sensitive topic for employees.

The phrase 'pick up the receiver' is becoming an 'idiom of technology'—people use it even when using mobile phones that don't have a separate receiver.

The Wide Receiver position in the NFL (e.g., Jerry Rice). The 'Official Receiver' in UK insolvency law. The 'Receiver' in the novel 'The Giver' by Lois Lowry (a person who receives memories).

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Telecommunications

Lift the receiver
Replace the receiver
Telephone receiver
Wireless receiver

Sports (American Football)

Wide receiver
Slot receiver
Eligible receiver
Pass receiver

Law and Finance

Official receiver
Administrative receiver
In receivership
Appoint a receiver

Consumer Electronics

AV receiver
Stereo receiver
Digital receiver
Satellite receiver

Interpersonal Communication

Receiver of the message
Receiver of the gift
Intended receiver
Passive receiver

Conversation Starters

"Do you still have a landline phone with a physical receiver at your house?"

"Who is your favorite wide receiver in the NFL right now?"

"Have you ever had to set up a complicated AV receiver for a home theater?"

"What do you think makes someone a 'good receiver' of constructive criticism?"

"If you were the receiver of a huge inheritance, what would you do first?"

Journal Prompts

Describe a time when you were the receiver of a very unexpected gift. How did you feel?

Write about the importance of being an active receiver in a conversation rather than just waiting for your turn to speak.

Imagine you are a court-appointed receiver for a failing toy factory. What steps would you take to save it?

How has the technology of the 'receiver' changed from your childhood to today?

Reflect on a situation where you were on the 'receiving end' of a difficult decision. How did you handle it?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Not exactly. While both get something, 'recipient' is used for awards, letters, and honors. 'Receiver' is used for electronic signals, sports players who catch balls, and legal appointees. For example, you are the recipient of a card but the receiver of a radio signal.

It means a company is having such bad financial trouble that it cannot pay its debts. A court then appoints a 'receiver' to take control of the company's property and money to make sure creditors get paid fairly. It is a step often taken before a company goes completely out of business.

It is grammatically correct, but 'recipient' is much more common and natural for emails. If you say 'the receiver of the email,' people will understand you, but 'the recipient of the email' sounds like a native speaker.

In American football, a wide receiver is a player who stands near the sidelines. Their main job is to run down the field and catch passes thrown by the quarterback. They are usually very fast and have good 'hands' for catching the ball.

It is called a receiver because its job is to 'receive' the electrical signals coming through the phone line and turn them back into sound waves that you can hear. The part you speak into is technically the 'transmitter,' though we usually call the whole thing a handset.

Yes, it is very common, but its usage is shifting. You will hear it every day in sports news and tech discussions. However, you hear it less often in daily conversation about phones since most people use mobiles now.

The most important thing is the 'ei' after the 'c'. Remember the rule: 'I before E except after C.' So it is R-E-C-E-I-V-E-R. Many people make the mistake of writing 'reciever,' so be careful!

An AV (Audio-Visual) receiver is a box that acts as the hub for a home theater. You plug your DVD player, game console, and speakers into it. It 'receives' the signals from these devices and sends the sound to the speakers and the picture to the TV.

In a legal sense, yes. If a company is 'put into the hands of a receiver,' it means the company is failing. Also, a 'receiver of stolen goods' is a criminal who buys things they know were stolen.

The opposite is a 'sender' (for people and messages) or a 'transmitter' (for electronic signals). The sender/transmitter gives the information or object, and the receiver takes it.