这两个动词的用法既有相同之处，也有不同之处。分述如下：

1. receive通常指被动地“收到”或“接到”，而 accept则指主动地“接受”。如：
We haven't received his letter for a long time.我们很久没有收到他的来信了。
She offered him a lift and he accepted (it).她请他坐她的车，他就领情了。
比较并体会：
She received his present, but she didn't accept it.她收到了他的礼物，但是没有接受。
注意：有时用词要视语言习惯而定，而不能简单地认为 receive＝收到，accept＝接受。如“接受礼物”说成英语是 accept a gift,而“接受教育”却是 receive an education(www.nmet168.com)。
2. 表示“接见”、“接待”时，要用 receive而不用 accept。如：
She was warmly received.她受到热情接待。