Meaning and Usage
The verb 受け付ける (うけつける) primarily means "to accept" or "to receive" something such as applications, requests, or documents. It is often used in formal or business contexts, especially when referring to the reception or processing of submissions.
Common Contexts
- Application or Registration: Used when accepting applications, registrations, or orders. For example, event participation or job applications.
- Reception Desk: Refers to the act of receiving documents or information at a reception or front desk.
- Accepting Ideas or Opinions: Can also be used metaphorically to describe being open to new ideas or suggestions.
Collocations and Patterns
- 申し込みを受け付ける: to accept applications
- 受付で受け付ける: to receive at the reception desk
- 意見を受け付ける: to accept opinions
These collocations highlight the formal and procedural nuance of the verb.
Register and Politeness
受け付ける is a neutral to polite verb suitable for formal written and spoken Japanese. It is commonly seen in announcements, official documents, and customer service contexts.
Common Learner Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse 受け付ける with 受ける (to receive, to take). While 受ける is more general, 受け付ける specifically implies acceptance or reception in an official or procedural sense. Use 受け付ける when referring to accepting applications, requests, or documents.