Ways to say it
| Japanese | Romanization (Wiktionary) | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| 受け取る | uketoru | [ɯ̟ke̞to̞ɾɯ̟] (narrow) | |
| 受ける | ukeru | [ɯ̟ke̞ɾɯ̟] (narrow) | |
| 頂く | itadaku | [ita̠da̠kɯ̟] (narrow) | humble |
The verb is used to describe the act of taking what is offered or accepting something from another person.
What does it mean word for word?
The verb 受け取る is composed of the verb 受ける (to receive) and 取る (to take).
Which one should you use?
受け取る often implies the physical act of taking or picking up an object, whereas 受ける is more abstract and used for receiving things like influence, orders or training. 受ける is also the standard verb used when saying one is 'taking' an exam.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
もらう is a casual way to say 'receive' when you are the one receiving something. 受領する is a more formal expression of 'receive' often used in administrative or official contexts. 頂く is the humble form used when you are receiving something from a person of higher status or someone you wish to show respect to.
How does it change in a sentence?
The past tense of 受け取る is 受け取った.
How do you pronounce it?
uketoru
Did you know?
- The humble verb 頂く literally means 'to place something on top of one's head'. This reflects an ancient custom of holding a gift or offering high up to show deep respect.
- While 受ける is used for 'taking' an exam, it is also used to describe a joke that 'hits' or is well-received by an audience. A comedian who is popular is often described as 受けている.
- While 受ける means 'to receive', it is also the specific word used to say one is 'undergoing' surgery or a police investigation.
Examples in context
- 寄付を受けるTo receive a donationThis sentence is useful for showing how to use 受ける with a donation.
- 招待を受けるTo receive an invitationThis sentence shows the use of 受ける with an invitation.
- 指導を受けるTo receive guidanceThis sentence demonstrates using 受ける in the context of receiving guidance.
- 私はプレゼントを受け取りました。I received a present.
- 書類を受領しました。I have received the documents.
- 友達から手紙をもらったよ。I received a letter from a friend.
- パッケージを受け取ったよ！I received the package!
- 彼はプレゼントを受け取った。He received a present.
- パーティーでたくさんのプレゼントをもらいましたよ！I received many gifts at the party!
- 2 more sentences on Tatoeba
Sources
- Wiktionary, “receive” translations and entries 受け取る, 受ける, 頂く, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Wiktionary CC BY-SA 4.0.
