What is client? Pronunciation and usage in English

client means . Learn how to pronounce and use client through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of client

clientnoun

/ˈklʌɪənt/
Definition & pronunciation of client

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "client" in English. It's a tricky one because it's a common word people mispronounce!

Here's the breakdown:

  • Key Sound: The most important part is the "li" sound. It's not like the "lie" sound.
  • Initial "C": The "c" is pronounced like a "k" – as in "kite."
  • "lient": This part is the trickiest. It’s a blend of sounds. Think of it like this:
    • "Lie" sound: (like in "lie down") - but shorter. It's a quick, light "lye" sound.
    • "Ent" sound: (like in "went") - but slightly softened.

Putting it all together:

The full pronunciation is: ** /ˈklaɪənt/ (KLY-ənt)**

Let's break that down syllable by syllable:

  • KLY - Like "kly" in "sky"
  • ənt - Like "ent" in "went" (but softer)

Tips for Saying It Right:

  • Don't overemphasize the "li": It's a quick, clipped sound.
  • Listen to examples: The best way to learn is by hearing it. Here are a few ways to hear the pronunciation:

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you more examples of words with similar sounds?

Usage and examples with the word client in English

Let's break down how to use the word "client" in English. It's a versatile word with a specific meaning, so understanding its nuances is key.

1. Core Meaning: A Customer or Person Receiving Services

At its most basic, "client" refers to a person or organization who receives services from a professional or business. It’s often used in more formal contexts than the word "customer."

  • Example: "I work with several clients in the marketing industry."
  • Example: "Our clients are our top priority."

2. Common Professions Where "Client" is Used:

You’ll frequently hear “client” in professions like:

  • Law: Lawyers work with legal clients.
  • Therapy/Counseling: Therapists have therapy clients.
  • Accounting: Accountants have accounting clients.
  • Marketing/Advertising: Agencies have marketing clients.
  • Design (Graphic Design, Interior Design, etc.): Designers serve design clients.
  • Consulting: Consultants work with consulting clients.
  • Real Estate: Real estate agents have real estate clients.

3. Distinction Between "Client" and "Customer":

This is crucial. While they can sometimes be used interchangeably, there’s a subtle difference:

Feature Customer Client
Relationship Transactional Ongoing, Professional
Nature Buying a product Receiving services
Formality More casual More formal
Examples Buying groceries, purchasing a car Hiring a lawyer, seeing a therapist

4. How to Use "Client" in Sentences:

  • “I have a new client who is launching a new product.” (Introducing someone receiving services)
  • “Our client satisfaction rate is very high.” (Referring to the overall experience)
  • “We need to schedule a meeting with our client to discuss the project.” (Formal appointment)
  • “This client has been with us for over ten years.” (Highlighting a long-standing relationship)
  • "As a client, you have the right to confidentiality." (Defines a right based on the professional relationship)

5. Variations & Related Words:

  • Clients: Plural of "client."
  • Clientele: (noun) – The total group of clients a business or professional has. "The firm boasts a diverse clientele."
  • Client list: A list of the people or organizations you work with as clients.

6. Tone and Context - Important Considerations:

  • Formal Settings: “Client” is generally more appropriate in professional environments.
  • Informal Settings: You'd usually use "customer" in casual conversations.

Resources for Further Learning:

To help me give you even more targeted information, could you tell me:

  • What is the context you’re thinking about using “client” in? (e.g., writing a business proposal, talking about your job, etc.)

Synonyms for the word client

Practice with vocabulary client

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The manager scheduled a meeting with the ____ to discuss the project details.
  2. She sent the invoice to the wrong ____, causing confusion in the billing process.
  3. The company’s primary focus is to satisfy the needs of its ____ and ensure their loyalty.
  4. The consultant worked closely with the ____ to develop a tailored marketing strategy.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Who does a lawyer primarily represent in a legal case?
    a) Client
    b) Customer
    c) Colleague
    d) Partner

  2. Which term refers to someone who purchases goods or services?
    a) Client
    b) Customer
    c) Employer
    d) Supplier

  3. In a consulting firm, who is the main beneficiary of the services provided?
    a) Client
    b) Manager
    c) Investor
    d) Employee

  4. Which word is most appropriate for someone who hires a freelancer?
    a) Client
    b) Boss
    c) Patron
    d) Director

  5. Who is responsible for providing feedback on a delivered project?
    a) Client
    b) Supervisor
    c) Contractor
    d) Auditor

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: The designer presented the layout to the person who commissioned the work.
    Rewrite: The designer presented the layout to the client.

  2. Original: The company ensured that the end-user’s requirements were met.
    Rewrite: The company ensured that the client’s requirements were met.

  3. Original: The consultant addressed the concerns of the business owner.
    Rewrite: The consultant addressed the concerns of the customer.

Answer:

Exercise 1:

  1. client
  2. client
  3. customer
  4. client

Exercise 2:

  1. a) Client
  2. b) Customer
  3. a) Client
  4. a) Client
  5. a) Client

Exercise 3:

  1. The designer presented the layout to the client.
  2. The company ensured that the client’s requirements were met.
  3. The consultant addressed the concerns of the customer.

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