Inklingo

How to Say "reception" in Spanish

English → Spanish

recepción

nounA1formal
Use 'recepción' for the front desk area where you check in at a hotel or office, or for a formal party like a wedding reception.

Examples

La recepción del hotel está abierta las 24 horas.

The hotel reception is open 24 hours.

acogida

ah-ko-HEE-dahakoˈxiða

nounB1
Choose 'acogida' when referring to the way an idea, event, or person is received or welcomed by others, focusing on the sentiment of the reception.
A friendly person opening a door wide with a warm smile and open arms.

Examples

La nueva política de la empresa tuvo una buena acogida entre los empleados.

The company's new policy was well-received by the employees.

Tuvimos una acogida muy cariñosa en su casa.

We had a very affectionate welcome at their house.

La nueva película tuvo una buena acogida por parte del público.

The new movie was well-received by the audience.

Agradezco la cálida acogida que me han brindado hoy.

I appreciate the warm welcome you have given me today.

Always Feminine

The word 'acogida' is always a feminine noun (la acogida), even if you are welcoming a group of men.

Noun vs. Verb

While it comes from a verb, here it acts like a thing. It describes the 'event' or 'vibe' of being received.

Using 'el' instead of 'la'

Mistake: “El acogida fue excelente.”

Correction: La acogida fue excelente. Since it ends in 'a' and isn't one of the special exceptions, it stays feminine.

bienvenida

bee-en-veh-NEE-dahbjenβeˈniða

nounA1formal
Use 'bienvenida' specifically for a formal gathering or party organized to welcome someone or something.
A smiling woman standing in an open doorway with her arms wide open, warmly greeting and receiving a person who is arriving.

Examples

Nos dieron una cálida bienvenida cuando llegamos al pueblo.

They gave us a warm welcome when we arrived in town.

Organizaron una gran fiesta de bienvenida.

They organized a big welcome party.

Le dimos la bienvenida a nuestro nuevo jefe.

We gave our new boss the welcome.

La bienvenida fue tan cálida que me sentí en casa.

The welcome was so warm that I felt at home.

Always Feminine

As a noun referring to the greeting itself, 'la bienvenida' is always feminine, even if you are welcoming a man. (e.g., 'La bienvenida que recibió [él] fue buena.')

Mixing Noun and Adjective

Mistake: “Using 'bienvenido' when referring to the noun: 'El bienvenida fue genial.'”

Correction: Use the feminine noun form: 'La bienvenida fue genial.' (The welcome was great.)

recepción

nounB2
Use 'recepción' to talk about the quality of a signal, such as for radio, television, or mobile phone service.

Examples

No tengo buena recepción aquí, no puedo hacer la llamada.

I don't have good reception here, I can't make the call.

Distinguishing 'Recepción' from 'Acogida'

Learners often confuse 'recepción' (the formal party or front desk) with 'acogida' (the sentiment of being received). Remember, 'acogida' describes *how* you are received, while 'recepción' can refer to the event itself or a physical place.

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