reciben
/rreh-SEE-behn/
they receive
The people receive a gift, illustrating the meaning of 'reciben'.
reciben(verb)
they receive
?general context
,you all receive
?used in Latin America or formal Spain
they get
?informal context, like getting a text or a gift
📝 In Action
Ellos reciben muchos correos electrónicos cada día.
A1They receive many emails every day.
Ustedes reciben un descuento especial hoy.
A1You all get a special discount today.
💡 Grammar Points
Who is doing the action?
The word 'reciben' always refers to a group of people. It is used for 'they' (ellos/ellas) or for 'you all' (ustedes).
❌ Common Pitfalls
Mixing up 'You' and 'They'
Mistake: "Using 'reciben' to talk to just one person."
Correction: Use 'recibes' for one friend (tú) or 'recibe' for one formal adult (usted).
⭐ Usage Tips
Latin America vs Spain
In Latin America, 'reciben' is the only way to say 'you all receive.' In Spain, it is mostly used for 'they,' while 'recibís' is used for friends.
The host welcomes visitors at the door, illustrating the meaning of 'reciben'.
reciben(verb)
they welcome
?hosting guests or visitors
they see
?a doctor seeing patients or a professional meeting clients
📝 In Action
Mis tíos siempre reciben a sus invitados con una gran cena.
A2My aunt and uncle always welcome their guests with a big dinner.
Los médicos reciben a los pacientes por la mañana.
B1The doctors see the patients in the morning.
💡 Grammar Points
Using the 'Personal A'
When 'reciben' means welcoming a person, you must put the word 'a' before the person's name: 'Reciben a Juan'.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: reciben
Question 1 of 2
If you say 'Mis padres reciben un paquete', what is happening?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Does 'reciben' only mean getting physical objects?
No, it is used for abstract things too, like receiving news, receiving an education, or receiving a warm welcome.
Is 'reciben' a regular verb?
Yes! It follows the standard rules for verbs ending in '-ir' in the present tense.