has not vs. has never

[JennaA]

Which of the two sentences sound better?
He has never received letter that was sent to him or he has not received letter that was sent to him.

 

[Matthew Wai]

I would add 'the' before 'letter'.
'Has not received' sounds to me as if 'he has not yet received the letter but he may receive it later'.

Not a teacher.

 

[tedmc]

He has not received...
'Never' is unnecessary.

not a teacher

 

[emsr2d2]

In colloquial BrE, you will hear "never" when people are trying to emphasise something.

Bank representative: We told you we were closing your account in a letter last November.
Me: But I've told you time and time again - I never received that letter!

In an exam situation or a formal situation, saying "I didn't/did not receive that letter" would be preferable.

 

[Matthew Wai]

'He has never received the letter sent to him long ago, and he may never receive it.'
Is it possible?
Not a teacher.

 

[Tdol]

Just about.