consumer
/kənˈsjuːmər/A person or organization that purchases goods or services for personal use or consumption, rather than for resale or use in production.
The company targets young consumers with its trendy products.
The company targets young consumers with its trendy products.
Consumer behavior is influenced by advertising and social trends.
Consumer behavior is influenced by advertising and social trends.
In business and economics, 'consumer' refers to the end-user of products or services, distinct from producers or distributors.
A device or system that uses energy or resources, such as a consumer of electricity or water.
The new appliance is designed to be an energy-efficient consumer.
The new appliance is designed to be an energy-efficient consumer.
In technical contexts, 'consumer' can refer to any entity that consumes resources, not just people.
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💡Pro Tip
Avoid confusion with 'consumer' vs. 'customer'
'Consumer' generally refers to the end-user of a product, while 'customer' can refer to anyone who buys goods or services, including businesses. For example, a company that buys office supplies is a customer, but not necessarily a consumer.
⚡Gold Rule
Use 'consumer' in formal contexts
In business and economics, 'consumer' is a formal term. In casual conversation, 'buyer' or 'customer' may be more appropriate.
📖Word Origin
From Latin 'consumere' (to consume) + '-er' (agent suffix). First recorded in English in the late 16th century.
📝Usage Notes
In marketing and economics, 'consumer' is often used to describe the end-user of a product or service, emphasizing their role in the market. The term can also be used metaphorically to describe anything that uses or consumes resources.