long-time customers

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "long-time customers" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to customers who have been with a business or service for an extended period. Example: "We appreciate our long-time customers for their loyalty and support over the years."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

He added that he noticed many long-time customers avoiding his shop during the lunch rush.

The New York Times

But long-time customers began to move away, he said, and new ones seemed to be getting fewer haircuts during the slow economy.

The New York Times

His colleagues also suffer from racial bullying, one of them physically abused by long-time customers the hotel is keen to keep.

The Guardian - Money

to poignant ("Please don't go. All of our children need you")., from long-time customers to children to out-of-towners who have made this citadel of books and bonhomie a destination store.

The New York Times

I need to charge more or limit what I'm writing.' " State laws are supposed to protect long-time customers from losing their insurance; even so, many people in Louisiana report that their insurance policies have been canceled.

The New York Times

More and more long-time customers were deserting the asset management company (AMC) every month.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

A new mother, a long-time customer, returned to Penny's Restaurant in Highland Park recently.

The New York Times

"I just got your e-mail, and, as a long-time customer, quite frankly found it to be offensive.

The New York Times

The beating went on for six to eight minutes, Mr Haque said, before a long-time customer came to his aid and detained Mr Kolvani until the police arrived.

Independent

TIM WU, a frequent contributor to the New Yorker, wrote an essay recently about why he, a long-time customer of United Airlines with more than 700,000 miles flown, has decided to "leave" the airline.

The Economist

Like many, Liaw is not just an App Annie investor – he's also a long-time customer.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Remember that while "long-time customers" is widely understood and accepted, its impact can be amplified by adding specific data about the relationship length. For example, "customers who have been with us for over a decade" offers greater clarity and demonstrates your commitment.

Common error

Don't just claim you value your "long-time customers". Show it with personalized offers, early access to new products, or exclusive events that specifically acknowledge their loyalty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "long-time customers" functions as a noun phrase, where "long-time" acts as a compound adjective modifying the noun "customers". Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. It identifies the recipients of a product or service who have maintained a relationship with a business for a significant duration.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "long-time customers" is a common and grammatically sound way to refer to customers who have maintained a relationship with a business for a significant period. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used across various contexts, especially in news and media. When using the phrase, remember to consider the specific nuance you want to convey, perhaps using "loyal patrons" or "established clientele" for more specific connotations. Most importantly, show your "long-time customers" that you value them through personalized offers and acknowledgements of their loyalty, and by giving concrete examples of what makes this business relationship valuable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

longstanding clients

Similar to "long-time customers" but sounds more formal.

loyal patrons

Highlights the customers' devotion and support.

established clientele

Emphasizes the status and history of the customer base.

faithful customers

Highlights their unwavering commitment to the business.

regular clients

Focuses on the consistent use of services.

veteran clients

Suggests a long history with the business.

valued customers

Emphasizes the importance the business places on these customers.

seasoned customers

Implies experience and familiarity with the business.

repeat customers

Focuses on the fact that customers return for more business.

returning customers

Similar to "repeat customers", emphasizing their recurring patronage.

FAQs

What does "long-time customers" mean?

The phrase "long-time customers" refers to individuals or entities that have maintained a business relationship with a company or service for an extended period. It implies loyalty and continued patronage.

What can I say instead of "long-time customers"?

You can use alternatives like "loyal patrons", "established clientele", or "regular clients" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "long time customers" instead of "long-time customers"?

While both forms might be understood, "long-time customers" is the grammatically preferred and more widely accepted version, using a hyphen to connect the compound adjective.

How can I effectively reward "long-time customers"?

Consider offering exclusive discounts, early access to new products, or personalized services to show appreciation for their continued support. This strengthens their loyalty and encourages them to remain "loyal patrons".