recepción
“recepción” means “reception” in Spanish. It has 4 different meanings depending on context:
reception, front desk
Also: lobby
📝 In Action
¿Dónde está la recepción? Necesito registrarme.
A1Where is the front desk? I need to check in.
Deje su mensaje en la recepción antes de irse.
A2Leave your message at reception before you leave.
reception
Also: banquet
📝 In Action
La recepción de la boda fue en un castillo antiguo.
B1The wedding reception was in an old castle.
Organizaron una recepción oficial para el embajador.
B2They organized an official reception for the ambassador.
reception
Also: signal strength
📝 In Action
La recepción de la radio es muy mala en el túnel.
B2The radio reception is very bad in the tunnel.
El técnico dijo que la mala recepción se debía a la antena.
C1The technician said the poor reception was due to the antenna.
receipt, acceptance
Also: receiving
📝 In Action
Confirmamos la recepción de su solicitud de beca.
B1We confirm the receipt of your scholarship application.
La nueva ley tuvo una recepción mixta entre el público.
C1The new law had a mixed acceptance among the public.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: recepción
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'recepción' to mean 'signal quality'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes directly from the Latin verb *recipere* (to take back, to receive) and the suffix *-tio* (forming a noun of action). It literally means 'the act of receiving.'
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
💡 Master Spanish
Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'recepción' the same as 'recibo'?
No, they are related but different! 'Recepción' is the general act or place of receiving (like the front desk or a party). 'Recibo' is a specific noun meaning a 'receipt'—the paper document proving you received something or paid for it.
How do I know if 'recepción' means a party or a desk?
Context is your best friend! If you hear it used with verbs like 'celebrar' (to celebrate) or 'de boda' (wedding), it means a party. If you hear it used with 'hotel' or 'llave' (key), it means the front desk.