Meaning

Primary

To Receive Something

Alternatives

To Accept Something, To Take Something

Word Type

transitive verb, ichidan verb

Explanation

This word consists of kanji with hiragana attached. Because the hiragana ends with an sound, you know this word is a verb. The kanji itself means receive, and this verb means just about the same thing: to receive something!

This is a transitive verb, so it takes a direct object. But 受ける often implies passive reception, generally of intangible objects like an education, or damage. It can also mean to take something, like taking an exam or a job offer.

Reading

うける
  • Kyoko
    (Tokyo accent, female)
  • Kenichi
    (Tokyo accent, male)

Explanation

There’s a creature in front of you that’s about to receive something, but what is it? It’s an uni (), and it’s going to receive a warm welcome and an education. Picture the sea urchin receiving these things, and then going on to take an exam to prove how much education it’s received.

Context

Pattern of Use

Common Word Combinations

  • サービスを受ける

    to receive a service

    ショックを受ける

    to receive a shock

    相談を受ける

    to receive a consultation

Context Sentences

明日、先生から電話を受ける。

I will receive a phone call from my teacher tomorrow.

今回はJLPTの試験を冬に受ける事にしました。

This time, I decided to take the JLPT exam in winter.

他人から言われた事を、毎回まともに受けなくてもいいんだよ。

You don't have to take what others say seriously every time.

Kanji Composition