Business Japanese – Various Expressions of “もらう”
Table of Contents
1. Various Expressions of “もらう”
2. Meaning of Each Word
3. Level of Respect
4. Summary
5. Similar Articles
6. Comment
Q: What are the differences between “いただく,” “頂戴する,” “賜る,” and “拝受する“?
A: All of these words mean “to receive” or “to accept,” but they differ in usage and level of respect.
Meaning of Each Word
Let’s learn the meanings of each word. In addition to their definitions, check the example sentences to understand their appropriate usage.
[いただく]
① To receive (a tangible item, an abstract concept, or verbal expression) from a superior.
② The humble form of “to eat” or “to drink.”
[Examples]
先生から本をいただきました。（①）
I received a book from my teacher.
A：「どうぞ、たくさん食べてください。」
B：「いただきます！」（②）
A: “Please, eat as much as you like.”
B: “Itadakimasu!”
[頂戴する]
① To receive (a tangible item, an abstract concept, or verbal expression).
② To receive and consume food or drink.
[Examples]
A：「もっと食べてください。」
B：「ありがとうございます。でも十分に頂戴しました。」（①）
A: “Please have some more.”
B: “Thank you, but I’ve had enough.”
社長から厳しいお叱りを頂戴しました。（①）
I received strict criticism from the president.
おいしそうなお菓子ですね。ひとつ頂戴してもいいですか。（②）
That snack looks delicious. May I have one?
[賜る]
① To specially receive or be granted (a tangible item, an abstract concept, or verbal expression) from a superior.
② For a superior to give something to a subordinate.
[Examples]
貴重なご意見を賜り、ありがとうございます。（①）
Thank you for granting us your valuable opinion.
社長より直々にこのような賞を賜り、大変光栄でございます。（②）
I am deeply honored to have received such an award directly from the president.
[拝受する]
To receive (documents, emails, etc.).
[Examples]
先日、ご送付いただいた書類を拝受いたしました。
I have received the documents you sent the other day.
A社の鈴木様より資料を拝受しました。
I have received the materials from Mr. Suzuki of Company A.
ご連絡を拝受し、お礼申し上げます。
I acknowledge receipt of your message and express my gratitude.
Thus, “拝受する” is limited to receiving documents, emails, etc., making its usage distinct from other expressions.
Now, let’s take a closer look at the differences between “いただく,” “頂戴する,” and “賜る.”
Level of Respect
In order of highest to lowest respect, the expressions are ranked as: “賜る” → “頂戴する” → “いただく”.
“賜る” is used when receiving something special from a superior. It is commonly paired with words such as “ご意見” (opinions), “ご指導” (guidance), and “ご支援” (support), rather than just tangible items. This expression is frequently used in formal settings, such as ceremonies and speeches.
[Examples]
貴重なご意見を賜り、誠にありがとうございます。
We sincerely appreciate your valuable opinions.
皆様のご支援を賜りながら、弊社は成長してまいりました。
With the support of everyone, our company has continued to grow.
“頂戴する” is a more polite and formal expression than “いただく”. It is commonly used in formal business settings and situations where showing respect to superiors is required.
[Examples]
貴重なお時間を頂戴しましたこと、お礼申し上げます。
We sincerely appreciate your valuable time.
マネージャーから了承を頂戴しました。
I have received approval from the manager.
“いただく” is a relatively casual expression used widely from everyday conversations to business settings. It is also commonly used when referring to eating or drinking.
[Examples]
お客様からお菓子をいただきました。
I received sweets from a customer.
おいしそうなケーキですね、いただきます。
This cake looks delicious, I’ll have some.
Summary
- “賜る,” “頂戴する,” and “いただく” are used when receiving physical, abstract, or linguistic items from a superior.
- For food and drink, “いただく” is used when consuming, while “頂戴する” is used when receiving to eat or drink.
- The level of respect follows this order: “賜る” → “頂戴する” → “いただく.”
- “拝受する” is specifically used when receiving documents or emails.
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