receptive

Receptive is an adjective meaning capable of receiving or taking in, whether physically, perceptually, or emotionally, and often implying openness to new ideas or information. In everyday use, it describes someone who is willing to listen, understand, or accept what is offered. The term is widely used across disciplines with more specialized senses.

In linguistics and education, receptive language or receptive skills refer to the ability to comprehend spoken or written language. Receptive vocabulary comprises words a person understands, as opposed to the productive or expressive vocabulary, which consists of words one can use in speech or writing. Assessments of receptive language measure comprehension, following directions, and the ability to interpret meaning.

In neuroscience and sensory physiology, receptive refers to the receptive field of a sensory neuron or receptor—the specific region of space or stimulus characteristics that can influence the neuron's firing. For example, the receptive field of a retinal ganglion cell corresponds to a portion of the visual field; touch receptors have receptive fields on the skin. Changes in stimulus within that field modulate response.

In social and organizational contexts, receptiveness describes openness to feedback, new information, or culturally diverse perspectives. Receptive individuals or organizations are more likely to adapt to change, engage in dialogue, and integrate new evidence into decision making.

Etymology: from Latin suscipere 'to take back, receive.' The form receptus appears in late Latin; English 'receptive' dates from the 15th century. See also: receptive language, receptive field, receptive vocabulary, openness to new ideas.