word choice - Opposite of "client"?


Is there an antonym of client for the following context?



The [?] performs services for his clients.



Usually one would just specify the profession or job title:



The contractor does home improvement for his clients.



But is there a term that is as generic as client? I thought of professional, but that obviously implies they are practicing a profession, which they might not be.



Answer



You have pointed out some of the difficulties related to the broad range of possible categories of services involved. Lawyers have clients, as do carpenters, manicurists and numerous other professions and tradespeople.


A term that is sometimes used is service provider.



BUSINESS a company that provides a service, for example insurance or medical treatment



It distinguishes the company or person proving services from a provider of goods (whose counterparts are usually called customers). Note, however, that the term is also used to identify a company that provides internet connectivity.


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