client
Definitions
A person or organization using the professional services of a lawyer, agency, or business
客户，委托人（使用专业服务的人或机构）
A computer or program that accesses a service made available by a server
客户端（访问服务器服务的电脑或程序）
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedFrom Latin cliēns, 'one who leans on.' In ancient Rome a client was a commoner who depended on a powerful patron for protection — leaning on him for support. That dependence carried into modern use: a client leans on a professional's services. Computing reused the metaphor: a client machine depends on a server.
Root clin still carries 13 more wordsWhy It Means This
The 'lean on' image explains why client implies a dependent relationship, unlike a one-off customer. A lawyer's client trusts and relies on her expertise; you don't 'lean on' the cashier who sells you milk.
Common Collocations
- 1.client satisfaction客户满意度
- 2.client relationship客户关系
Example Sentences
- 1.
The lawyer met her new client to discuss the contract dispute.
- 2.
Our agency lost a major client after the campaign failed.
- 3.
The email client kept syncing messages from the server.
Easily Confused
client vs customer — A customer buys goods in a single transaction (a customer at a shop). A client uses ongoing professional services and depends on expertise (a law firm's clients). Rule of thumb: buy a thing → customer; rely on a service → client.