How to use "received and noted"

What Does "received and noted" Mean?

  • Pragmatic function: It serves as an acknowledgement, confirming that information has been received and understood. It often implies that no further action is required from the receiver.
  • Literal vs. conventional meaning: Literally, it means the information was received and then taken note of. Conventionally, it's a succinct way to signal comprehension and acceptance of the information without necessarily agreeing with it.
  • Register: Neutral to formal.

How to Use It

  • Typical social context: It's used in professional settings, formal communication, and situations where a clear record of acknowledgement is needed. This includes email correspondence, meetings, and official reports.
  • Formality level and relationship between speakers: It's suitable for use between colleagues, superiors and subordinates, or in any situation where maintaining a professional distance is important.
  • Expected response or follow-up: Typically, no further response is needed after using or receiving "received and noted," unless further clarification or action is required based on the information itself.
  • Can it stand alone or does it need a continuation: It can stand alone as a complete response, or it can be followed by additional comments or instructions.

Real-World Examples

These examples are sourced from received and noted on Ludwig.guru.

"Simon Hurrell, Royal Borough Of Windsor and Maidenhead Borough Council's head of planning and development, said: "We have received a petition and noted its contents"." — BBC

"Huffman said that CHP officials allowed Peyer "to continue taking young women to the off-ramp, even after receiving complaints," and noted that the sergeant "commended Peyer for his tactics". "The tactics were wrong.." — Los Angeles Times

"In his official statement accompanying the pardon, Trump condemned the sentences the Hammonds received and noted that pair were "devoted family men"." — Vice

"We've received direct word and noted on Twitter that that Mike Culbert, a longtime Apple hardware engineer, has passed away after battling cancer." — TechCrunch

"Specter, the ranking member on the Senate Judiciary Committee, said that three "red flags" had him most concerned: Goodell's destruction of the tapes and notes that the league received from the Patriots last fall; Goodell's decision to impose penalties on the team and Belichick before the league received and reviewed the tapes and notes; and the way the N.F.L. has approached Walsh." — The New York Times - Sports

Examples sourced from https://ludwig.guru/s/received+and+noted

Similar Phrases and Alternatives

Phrase Context
Understood Simple and direct acknowledgement; works in most contexts.
Duly noted Slightly more formal; emphasizes that the information is important.
Acknowledged Formal and direct; suitable for official communication.
Noted Short, concise, and slightly less formal than "received and noted".
Got it More informal; appropriate for casual workplace communication.
I understand Shows comprehension; can be followed by questions if needed.
Thank you for the information Polite and acknowledges receipt, especially useful when someone has gone to the effort of providing the information.

Common Mistakes

  • Using "received and noted" in casual conversations with friends or family would sound overly formal and stilted.
  • Confusing "received and noted" with an expression of agreement. It only indicates that the information was received and understood, not necessarily that the receiver agrees with it.
  • Learners might use it in overly casual settings or confuse it with more active forms of agreement or acknowledgement.

Quick-Reference Summary

Expression Social Function Register Typical Context
Received and noted Acknowledgment of information Neutral to Formal Professional communication, official reports, email correspondence

FAQs

What is the appropriate response when someone says "received and noted"?

A response is usually not required. The phrase itself indicates that the message has been understood and no further action is immediately needed. However, if clarification or further action is required, you could follow up with a question or instruction.


Is "received and noted" used differently in British English versus American English?

No, the phrase "received and noted" carries a similar meaning and level of formality in both British and American English. It is generally understood and used in professional contexts in both regions.


How can I avoid misusing "received and noted"?

Avoid using it in casual conversations, as it can sound overly formal. Remember that it only indicates acknowledgement, not necessarily agreement. Be mindful of the context and ensure that the level of formality aligns with the situation. Learners might use it in overly casual settings or confuse it with more active forms of agreement or acknowledgement.

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