What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
addressee
Example
Please write the addressee's name and address on the envelope. [addressee: noun]
Example
The addressee of the speech was the graduating class of 2021. [addressee: noun]
Example
The new policy is specifically targeted towards the addressees of the previous complaints. [addressees: plural noun]
recipient
Example
The recipient of the scholarship was thrilled to receive the news. [recipient: noun]
Example
The program is designed to help low-income families who are recipients of government aid. [recipients: plural noun]
Example
Please make sure the recipient signs for the package upon delivery. [recipient: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Recipient is more commonly used than addressee in everyday language. Recipient is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while addressee is less common and is typically used in more formal or legal settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between addressee and recipient?
Addressee is slightly more formal than recipient and is often used in official or legal documents. However, both words can be used in formal writing and business contexts.
