The intended recipient of a message in communication is known as the _____ audience.

The intended recipient of a message in communication is referred to as the receiving audience because this term directly identifies those who are meant to understand and interpret the message. The receiving audience is crucial in the communication process because effective communication relies on the message being accurately conveyed and understood by them. This audience is the focal point of communication efforts and plays an essential role in determining the success of the message.

In contrast, the other terms do not accurately capture the role of the intended recipient. The effective audience pertains more to how well the communication achieves its purpose rather than who it is directed toward. The active audience and the passive audience refer to the level of engagement and participation the audience has with the message, which does not define them as the intended recipient of the communication.