reception desk

Meaning

A reception desk is the specific counter where a receptionist sits to welcome guests, answer phone calls, and handle administrative tasks. While very similar to 'front desk,' 'reception desk' is commonly used in both hotels and professional offices to announce your arrival.

Examples

• Please sign your name in the guest book at the reception desk.

  Please sign your name in the guest book at the reception desk.

• The reception desk is located on the ground floor next to the elevators.

  The reception desk is located on the ground floor next to the elevators.

• He walked up to the reception desk and asked to see the manager.

  He walked up to the reception desk and asked to see the manager.

• There was a beautiful vase of fresh flowers on the reception desk.

  There was a beautiful vase of fresh flowers on the reception desk.

• Is the reception desk open twenty-four hours a day?

  Is the reception desk open twenty-four hours a day?

Common Mistakes

• ✗ Go to the reception bureau to get your badge.

  ✓ Go to the reception desk to get your badge.

  Learners from some European language backgrounds translate 'bureau' directly. In English, we use 'desk' or 'counter' for this physical location.

• ✗ I am waiting near the reception table.

  ✓ I am waiting near the reception desk.

  Even if it physically resembles a table, the standard professional term is always 'reception desk'.

Related Expressions

Practice

• The security guard directed us to the ___ on the first floor.

  💡 The counter where visitors register.

  Show answer

  reception desk

• You can pick up your visitor pass at the ___.

  💡 Where the receptionist sits.

  Show answer

  reception desk