“Receive” or “recieve”? If you’ve ever hesitated while typing this word, you’re not alone. These two spellings look almost identical, but only one is correct in English.

In this post, we’ll explain which spelling is right, why the mistake is so common, and share a simple trick to avoid it forever. Let’s fix one of the most common spelling mistakes in English!

What Does “Receive” Mean?

“Receive” is a verb that means to get or be given something. It is used in formal and informal situations, and is one of the most frequently written words in English.

Examples:

• “Did you receive my message?”
• “She received a gift for her birthday.”

What Does “Recieve” Mean?

“Recieve” is not a correct word in English. It is simply a misspelling of “receive.” You might see it online or in informal writing, but it should be avoided.

Important: Even though “recieve” looks believable, you won’t find it in any reputable dictionary.

Key Differences: Receive vs Recieve

Spelling	Status	Meaning	Example
Receive	✅ Correct	To get or be given something	“I received your email.”
Recieve	❌ Incorrect	None — it’s a misspelling	“I recieved your message.” ❌

Common Mistakes

• ❌ Writing “recieve” due to confusion with other “-ieve” words like “believe.”
• ❌ Thinking both versions are acceptable — only “receive” is right.
• ✅ Always double-check with a spell checker or grammar tool.

Easy Tricks to Remember

• 🔠 I before E except after C — “receive” follows this famous rule.
• 🧠 Visual memory: “receive” → "C" comes before "E and I."
• 📌 Tip: "Believe" is the exception, "receive" is the rule.

Quick Practice Exercise

Choose the correct spelling for each sentence:

1. Did you --Choose-- receive recieve the package yet?
2. I didn’t --Choose-- receive recieve any instructions.
3. We --Choose-- receive recieve a bonus at the end of the year.
4. Please let me know once you --Choose-- receive recieve the documents.

Check Answers

Bonus Resources

• Browse more spelling tips on AulaPlanet → Full category
• Cambridge Dictionary: “Receive” definition
• Wikipedia: I before E except after C rule

Conclusion

The word “receive” is often misspelled as “recieve”, but only the version with “-cei-” is correct. Follow the spelling rule, practice it, and you’ll never mix them up again!

📲 Keep improving your English spelling with more lessons from AulaPlanet.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)