Receptionist

ri-SEP-shuh-nist /rɪˈsepʃənɪst/

Neutral Neutral

What it really means

The person at the front desk of a surgery who books appointments and answers the phone. They may ask what your problem is — this is normal and helps them book you with the right person.

Chinese explanation

诊所前台接待员，负责预约和接电话。他们可能会问你哪里不舒服——这是正常流程，是为了帮你安排合适的医护人员。

Example conversation

A: The receptionist asked why I need to see the doctor. Is that rude? B: No, it\'s standard. You can just give a short reason.

A：前台问我为什么要看医生，这是不是不礼貌？ B：不是，这是标准流程。简单说一下原因就行。

What you could say back

“It's a private matter, but it's not urgent.”

Related phrases

Appointment Can I ask what it's regarding?

Official sources

Rules and amounts change — confirm important details with the official source.

Go deeper

Dentists and Opticians in the UK: Costs, NHS Bands and How to Get Seen How the NHS Works: Where to Go When You Are Ill in England Mental Health Support in the UK: Where to Turn and How It Works

All Healthcare & NHS

Reviewed by the UK Decoded editorial team · Last checked 24 July 2026 · Report a mistake