Who is considered a consumer in economic terms?

In economic terms, a consumer is defined as an individual or entity that purchases goods or services for personal use rather than for resale or commercial purposes. This definition emphasizes that the consumer is not engaged in the buying behavior with the intent to further commerce but instead is fulfilling their own personal needs or wants.

When we consider the correct choice, a person who is not involved in commercial transactions fits this description perfectly. They may use products or services for personal enjoyment or necessity, illustrating the traditional role of a consumer in the economy.

The other options introduce elements that fall outside the typical definition of a consumer. For instance, businesses or government entities, while they may purchase goods or services, usually do so for operational purposes rather than personal consumption. A business engaged in commercial transactions explicitly indicates a role that is focused on trade, profit-making, and market engagement, which is distinctly different from that of a consumer. Similarly, a person engaged in financial trading may be participating in the economy but is primarily acting as an investor rather than a consumer in the traditional sense. Lastly, a government entity, when purchasing goods, is often acting on behalf of the public sector and not as a consumer in the private sector market context.