receiving end

American  

noun

1. the position in which one is subject to some kind of action or effect, especially an unpleasant one (usually used in the phrase at oron the receiving end ).

   The corporation is on the receiving end of many complaints about its advertising.

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Etymology

Origin of receiving end

First recorded in 1930–35

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

receiving end

As a single, childless woman, I’ve also been on the receiving end of some petty remarks about how “easy” my life must be because I don’t have any “real” responsibilities.

From MarketWatch ● Aug. 19, 2026

England players were on the receiving end of a half-time reproach from manager Thomas Tuchel as their World Cup campaign got off to a victorious start against Croatia.

From BBC ● Jun. 17, 2026

But more often, people on the receiving end just feel like something is . . . off.

From Salon ● Jun. 10, 2026

Whether the Amazons and Microsofts are taxed at the front end, or the businesses and customers on the receiving end have to pay, the cost of using AI would go up, he says.

From The Wall Street Journal ● May 7, 2026

However, she was on the receiving end of many curious, pitying, and disdainful looks.

From "The Hidden Gallery" by Maryrose Wood