consumer

/kənˈsjuːmər/
noun★Intermediate— a person who buys and uses goods or services
general

a person who purchases goods or services for personal use

The company focuses on understanding consumer needs to improve its products.

This shows how businesses prioritize customer preferences in product development.

💡

In everyday contexts, 'consumer' refers to individuals who buy products for personal use.

💻Technology
technical

a person or organization that uses a service or resource

The cloud service provider offers scalable solutions for enterprise consumers.

This refers to businesses or organizations that utilize cloud computing services.

💡

In technology, 'consumer' can refer to both individuals and organizations using services.

Collocations

consumer behaviorthe actions and decisions of people when buying productsconsumer rightslegal protections for people who purchase goods or servicesconsumer marketthe group of people who buy a particular type of product

Related Phrases

consumer protectionphrase
laws and regulations to safeguard buyers
consumer confidencephrase
the level of optimism among buyers about the economy

💡Pro Tip

Consumer vs. Customer

'Consumer' is broader and includes all buyers, while 'customer' often refers to someone with a direct relationship with a business.

⚡Gold Rule

Consumer Rights

Consumers have legal rights to safety, information, choice, and redress in many countries.

📖Word Origin

From Latin 'consumere' (to use up), via French 'consommer' (to consume). First used in English in the 16th century.

📝Usage Notes

In business and economics, 'consumer' is often contrasted with 'producer.' In technology, it can refer to users of services.

Word Breakdown

con-
together
prefix
+
-sum-
use up
root
+
-er
one who
suffix
English Dictionary