be on/at the receiving end

be on the receiving end

To be in the position of getting something (from someone else). Typically, the one "on the receiving end" is the recipient of some behavior or action perceived to be harmful or negative. Look, I know you're having a tough time at work, but I'm sick of being on the receiving end of your temper every night! I'd hate to be on the receiving end of one of his roundhouse kicks. She may look scrawny, but you don't want to be on the receiving end of one of her punches, trust me.

See also: end, on, receive

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

be at (or on) the receiving end

be subjected to something unpleasant. informal

See also: end, receive

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017

be on/at the reˈceiving end (of something)

(informal) be the person that an action, etc. is directed at, especially an unpleasant one: He’s been on the receiving end of a lot of criticism recently.

See also: end, on, receive

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017