customers - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
customers Word Meanings
- a person who buys goods or services
- a client or patron
- someone who frequents a place
customers Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
customers Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈkʌstəmə/
US
/ˈkʌstəmər/
customers Word Etymology
customer: custom (habit) + -er (one who). Historical origin: Old French 'costumier' → Middle English 'customer'. Memory image: Picture a bustling market where every customer brings their unique habits and needs, creating a rich tapestry of commerce.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I grip the counter and turn toward the door as a customer steps in. The customer pauses, eyes scanning the shelves, a small sigh betraying a long day. I shift my stance, speak softly, and adjust the selection to what they seem to want. When they choose, I place the item on the counter, keep my pace steady, and let the moment settle into a simple exchange.
Real Context
Customer refers to a person who buys goods or services. It covers many everyday encounters: a customer at a store, a client at a professional service, or a patron at a cafe or cinema. The word emphasizes the buyer's side of a commercial relationship, rather than the advice or ongoing service that might be provided. It is different from consumer, who uses products at large, and from client, which often signals a longer-term professional relationship. People sometimes confuse customer with guest or patient, but those words belong to different contexts. A memory image of a busy market helps recall that customers bring varied habits, needs, and expectations to commerce.
Usage Reminders
- Use the word for buyers in shops and service encounters.
- Not interchangeable with consumer or client in all contexts.
- Remember common collocations: customer service, customer feedback, returning customer, loyal customer.
- Watch articles: a customer vs the customer vs customers.
- Plural forms refer to a base of customers, not a single person.
Common Misconceptions
- Customer = consumer; they are always the same
- A client is the same as a customer
- Patron and customer always mean the same thing
- You only become a customer when you buy expensive items
- All businesses use 'customer' in every context
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Practice with real-life dialogues
- Listen for collocations, not just the word
- Distinguish between customer and client in context
- Remember common phrases like customer service
- Make flashcards for typical scenarios
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'customers'?
A.An employee selling items
B.The owner of a store
C.People who purchase goods or services
D.A type of product
Step 2: Usage
Select the sentence that uses the word 'customers' correctly.
A.I will customers my homework later.
B.Customers are important for a business's success.
C.The customers runs the marathon every year.
D.I bought customers from the store.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'customers'?
A.clients
B.employees
C.managers
D.suppliers
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'customers'?
A.products
B.sellers
C.stores
D.services
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario where people would consider their needs in a marketplace?
A.They spent their weekend reading books at home.
B.The store always welcomes feedback to improve services.
C.Yesterday's game was really exciting.
D.The new software update has many features.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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