der Verbraucher
consumer
A person who buys goods or uses services in order to satisfy their personal needs; a consumer.
EXAMPLE
Das neue Gesetz soll die Rechte der Verbraucher stärken.
The new law is intended to strengthen consumers' rights.
der Verbraucher
consumer
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Meanings
der Verbraucher
consumer / load
A device or component in a technical system that consumes energy or another resource.
EXAMPLE
In diesem Stromkreis ist die Glühbirne der einzige Verbraucher.
In this circuit, the light bulb is the only load.
der Verbraucher
consumer
A living organism in an ecosystem that feeds on other organisms in order to obtain energy.
EXAMPLE
In der Nahrungskette ist der Fuchs ein Verbraucher, der sich von Mäusen ernährt.
In the food chain, the fox is a consumer that feeds on mice.
Usage tips
Word structure
'Der Verbraucher' (consumer) is derived directly from the verb 'verbrauchen' (to consume). The ending '-er' indicates the person or thing that performs the action. So a Verbraucher is someone or something that consumes something.
EXAMPLE
Ein sparsames Auto verbraucht wenig Benzin.
An economical car consumes little gasoline.
Context clue
You can easily recognize the meaning of 'Verbraucher' (consumer) from context. In connection with shopping, it refers to a person as a consumer (m01). In technology, it is about devices that use energy (m02). In biology, it refers to living organisms in a food chain (m03).
EXAMPLE
Dieses Produkt wurde von Verbrauchern gut bewertet.
This product was rated well by consumers.
Typical collocations
In economic and legal contexts, 'Verbraucher' (consumer) is often used in fixed terms such as 'Verbraucherschutz' (consumer protection) or 'Verbraucherzentrale' (consumer advice center). These are about the rights and protection of consumers.
EXAMPLE
Bei Problemen mit einem Produkt kann man sich an die Verbraucherzentrale wenden.
If you have problems with a product, you can contact the consumer advice center.
Compare with
Verbraucher vs Kunde
customer
A Kunde can be a person or organization that obtains goods or services for various purposes. Verbraucher, by contrast, refers to a person who uses something for their personal needs. When making a private purchase, either word may fit, but Verbraucher emphasizes private use.
Verbraucher
Der Verbraucher bestellt für seine Wohnung einen neuen Schreibtisch.
The consumer is ordering a new desk for their apartment.
Kunde
Der Kunde bestellt für seine Firma zehn neue Schreibtische.
The customer is ordering ten new desks for their company.
In real life
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