What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
got
Example
I got a new job last week. [got: past tense]
Example
I got a letter from my friend yesterday. [got: verb]
Example
We got to the airport just in time for our flight. [got: past tense]
receive
Example
She received an award for her outstanding performance. [received: past tense]
Example
I will receive my diploma at the graduation ceremony. [receive: verb]
Example
He received a watch as a retirement gift. [received: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Got is more commonly used in everyday language than receive. Got is a simple and versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while receive is more formal and less commonly used in casual conversation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between got and receive?
Receive is a more formal word than got. It is often used in official or professional settings, such as in business or legal documents. On the other hand, got is more informal and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
