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

“When we learn critical thinking with and from other humans, we cannot easily forget that humans are on the receiving end of the ideas we communicate.”

From Salon • Mar. 30, 2026

What’s suffering as a result of these attacks: the ability of ordinary people who were on the receiving end of crackdowns to get good representation to fight back.

From Slate • Mar. 5, 2026

She claimed she did not have a good relationship with Behr, and had "been on the receiving end of some not very pleasant behaviour".

From BBC • Mar. 2, 2026

Some people who don’t expect an inheritance might feel wistful or even sad about their financial prospects, especially when relatives and friends are on the receiving end.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 13, 2026

I understand why you can't be on the receiving end of these updates anymore, and i'll respect your decision, but I'll miss you.

From "Allegiant" by Veronica Roth