Definition

Noun: A group of clients or customers who regularly use the services of a business or professional person. It refers to the collective body of patrons.

Usage

The word "clientele" is used to describe the customers of a business or the clients of a professional as a collective group. It emphasizes the type or class of people served, often suggesting a consistent or characteristic group. * The restaurant's clientele is mostly local families. * A lawyer must understand the needs of their clientele. * The shop changed its inventory to appeal to a younger clientele.

Advanced Usage

• Building/Developing a clientele: The process of attracting and establishing a base of regular customers.
  • The new salon worked hard to build a loyal clientele.
• To cater to a (specific) clientele: To specifically serve or target a particular group of customers.
  • This boutique caters to an exclusive, high-end clientele.

Variants and Related Words

• Client (noun): An individual person or organization using the services of a professional or business.
  • She met with a new client this morning.
• Patronage (noun): The support, especially financial, given by a patron or clientele.
  • We thank you for your continued patronage.

Synonyms

• Customers: People who buy goods or services from a shop or business.
• Patrons: A more formal term for customers, especially of restaurants, hotels, or arts institutions.
• Regulars: Informal term for customers who visit a place frequently.

Antonyms

• There is no direct antonym for the collective noun "clientele." For an individual, the opposite of a client/customer could be a provider, seller, or vendor.

Noun

1. customers collectively
   • they have an upper class clientele