Clientele Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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clientele

[ˌkliː.ɒnˈtel ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

business

The clients or customers of a business.

Synonyms

customers, guests, patrons, visitors.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
clientele	Use this word when referring to the regular customers of a business, especially a service-based one like a hair salon, law firm, or upscale restaurant. The boutique's clientele appreciates the exclusive products. The spa's loyal clientele keeps coming back for the excellent services.
customers	This is a general term suitable for people who purchase goods or services from a business. It is commonly used in retail, online shops, and other commercial settings. The supermarket is always busy with customers. Customers are happy with the new product range.
patrons	Similar to clientele, but with a touch more formality and often used in the context of arts, culture, or institutions like libraries and museums. Patrons are usually supportive of the establishment. The museum had a special event for its patrons. The theater's patrons enjoy discounted tickets for annual subscribers.
guests	This term is best used in hospitality contexts, such as hotels, restaurants, and events where people are invited or pay to attend. It implies a kind of hospitality and service. The hotel staff welcomed the guests warmly. We have several guests attending tonight's dinner party.
visitors	Best used for people who come to a place, such as a location, attraction, or institution, typically for a short period or a specific purpose. Can also imply a casual or unplanned visit. The park attracts many visitors during the summer. Visitors must sign in at the front desk.

Examples of usage

The hotel's clientele consists mainly of business travelers.
The restaurant's clientele has been steadily growing since it opened.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

social

A group of clients or customers regularly served by a business or professional person.

Synonyms

client base, customer base, patronage.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
clientele	Used to refer to a group of clients or customers collectively, typically in a more formal or business context. The luxury boutique boasts a sophisticated clientele. Our restaurant's clientele primarily consists of local residents and tourists.
client base	Utilized when discussing the customers or clients who are loyal to a business or service, often in a strategic or analytical context. The company needs to expand its client base to remain competitive. We aim to increase our client base by 20% this year.
customer base	Appropriate when talking about the group of regular customers who buy products or services from a particular business, often used in retail or consumer goods contexts. To boost sales, we must target our existing customer base with new offers. Our customer base has grown significantly over the past year.
patronage	Refers to the support or regular business given by customers or clients, often used in a more traditional or historical context, and can also imply a relationship of support beyond just commercial transactions. The local theater owes much of its success to the patronage of the community. We deeply appreciate your continuous patronage over the years.

Examples of usage

The lawyer's clientele includes several high-profile individuals.
The boutique has a loyal clientele that keeps coming back.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Business

Businesses often focus on building a loyal clientele, which can lead to increased sales and repeat customers.
Different sectors, like retail or hospitality, may have specific strategies to attract and retain their clientele.
Understanding clientele preferences helps businesses tailor their services and products effectively.

Sociology

Clientele dynamics can reflect broader social trends, indicating shifts in consumer behavior.
The characteristics of a clientele can affect how services are delivered and what products are marketed.
Businesses often segment their clientele based on demographics to better target their offerings.

Pop Culture

In films and literature, the term is often used to represent a group that signifies social class or economic status.
Popular TV shows about businesses frequently explore the interactions between business owners and their clientele.
Famous brands like Starbucks and McDonald's have distinct clientele, shaping their marketing strategies.

Origin of 'clientele'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the Latin 'clientela,' which means 'protection or allegiance of a client to a patron.'
It originally described a group of clients who depended on a powerful figure for support.
In Middle English, the term took on a commercial meaning, referring to customers of a business.

The word 'clientele' originated in the mid-16th century from the French word 'clientèle', which comes from the Latin word 'cliens' meaning 'dependent'. Over time, it evolved to refer to the clients or customers of a business or professional person. The term has been widely used in business contexts to describe the people who regularly use the services or products offered.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,994, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

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14991 appellation
14992 unarmed
14993 nucleation
14994 clientele
14995 relocated
14996 histamine
14997 obeying
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