What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
consumer
Example
As a consumer, I always look for the best value for my money. [consumer: noun]
Example
The company's target consumers are young adults aged 18-35. [consumers: plural noun]
customer
Example
The customer complained about the quality of the product. [customer: noun]
Example
We strive to provide excellent customer service to all our clients. [customer: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Customer is more commonly used than consumer in everyday language, especially in business or service contexts. However, consumer is an important term in marketing and economics.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between consumer and customer?
Both consumer and customer can be used in formal and informal contexts, but customer is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of situations, including formal business settings.