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Consumer Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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consumer

[kənˈsjuːmər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

buying goods or services

A consumer is a person who purchases goods or services for personal use. Consumers play a vital role in the economy by driving demand for products and services.

Synonyms

buyer, customer, shopper.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
consumer

Typically used in economic terms and discussions. It refers to individuals who use goods and services produced within the economy.

  • Many consumers are opting for eco-friendly products.
  • The company released a new product to meet the demands of modern consumers.
customer

Commonly used in retail, service industries, and businesses to refer to individuals who purchase goods or services. It emphasizes the transactional relationship.

  • The customer is always right.
  • We need to improve our customer service.
buyer

Often used in the context of purchasing items, particularly when discussing transactions, negotiations, or the real estate market.

  • The buyer made an offer on the house.
  • We need to find a buyer for this antique furniture.
shopper

Used to describe people who are actively browsing or buying goods, often in stores or malls. This word often emphasizes the shopping experience.

  • During the holiday season, the mall is full of shoppers.
  • She is a savvy shopper who always finds the best deals.

Examples of usage

  • Consumers are becoming more conscious of the environmental impact of their purchases.
  • The latest trend among consumers is to prioritize buying from sustainable brands.
Context #2 | Noun

biology

In biology, a consumer is an organism that feeds on other organisms or organic matter. Consumers are an essential part of the food chain.

Examples of usage

  • Lions are top consumers in the African savanna ecosystem.
  • Herbivores are primary consumers that feed on plants.

Translations

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

Origin of 'consumer'

The word 'consumer' originated in the late Middle English period from the Latin word 'consumere', which means 'to use up'. The term evolved over time to represent individuals who purchase goods or services for personal use. As economies developed and trade expanded, the concept of consumerism became more prominent, leading to the modern understanding of consumers in the marketplace.

See also: consumable, consume, consumed, consumerism, consumers, consuming, consummation, consumption, consumptive.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,136, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.