first-time customer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "first-time customer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to someone who is making a purchase or using a service for the first time. Example: "As a first-time customer, you are eligible for a special discount on your first order."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

I looked in the computer and found out he was a first-time customer.

The New York Times

I was with a first-time customer when she learned she had six months to live.

The New York Times

Anabel Murillo, 31, a first-time customer trying on lip gloss, whispered: "I don't really wear makeup".

The New York Times

Late in the afternoon, a first-time customer walked in, scanned the shelves in bewilderment and inevitably asked, "Do you sell books here?" Not anymore.

The New York Times

Ms. Sánchez, according to court documents, offered the woman what she said was a discount price for a first-time customer: $1,900.

The New York Times

But there was another reason we ordered the kit: It was free -- to any first-time customer at PlanetRx who placed an order of $10 or more at the Web site (www.planetrx.com).

The New York Times - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

"You choose the drink; I take care of the rest," Rubén García instructs first-time customers.

The Guardian - Travel

"First-time customers were stunned because the cones were very big," Mr. Fitzpatrick said.

The New York Times

When a Kohr's employee hands off a cone, first-time customers are likely to sigh.

The New York Times

Mr Bell notes, for example, that almost half of Bonobos's first-time customers heard about the company from neighbours.

The Economist

(The actual Blink price was 79 euros; I used a 5-euro voucher available to first-time customers).

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When targeting "first-time customers" with marketing campaigns, clearly communicate the value proposition and benefits they will receive, as they may be unfamiliar with your brand's offerings.

Common error

Don't assume "first-time customers" will intuitively understand your product or service. Provide clear and concise instructions or onboarding materials to ensure a positive initial experience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "first-time customer" functions primarily as an adjective phrase modifying the noun "customer". It serves to specify or categorize the customer based on their initial interaction with a business or service. Ludwig AI confirms this usage across numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Formal & Business

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Science

2%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "first-time customer" is a common and grammatically correct term used to describe someone who is engaging with a business or service for the first time. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its widespread use across various contexts, including news, business, and general informational content. The phrase functions as an adjective modifying "customer" and serves to categorize individuals based on their initial interaction. Understanding the nuances of this phrase is essential for businesses seeking to tailor their marketing and customer service strategies effectively. From a linguistic point of view, its role is clear, its aim is clear, as a description tool, and the contexts of use are varied, though the news environment seems to be the most recurrent one.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

new customer

Emphasizes the novelty of the customer's relationship with the business.

initial customer

Highlights the beginning of the customer's engagement.

first-time buyer

Specifically refers to a customer making their first purchase.

newly acquired customer

Focuses on the business's perspective of gaining a new customer.

inaugural customer

Suggests a more formal or significant first experience.

trial customer

Implies the customer is trying out a service or product for the first time.

never-before customer

Directly states the customer has never engaged before.

novice customer

Emphasizes the customer's lack of experience.

lead customer

Highlights the potential for a customer to become a steady one.

newly onboarded customer

Common term used in marketing and customer relationship management to refer to a customer who has recently begun using a company's products or services.

FAQs

How can I attract more "first-time customers"?

Consider offering introductory discounts or promotions specifically targeted at "new customers" to incentivize initial purchases.

What is the difference between a "first-time customer" and a "loyal customer"?

A "first-time customer" is someone who has never purchased from you before, while a "loyal customer" is someone who makes repeat purchases and has a history with your business.

How do I create a good experience for a "first-time customer"?

Focus on providing excellent customer service, clear communication, and a seamless purchasing process to make a positive first impression on "first-time customers".

What are some alternatives to "first-time customer"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "new customer", "initial customer", or "first-time buyer".