Meaning & use
patrons only
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Meanings
phrasefixed phrase
Reserved for paying customers or members of a business or organization.
Grammar: Used as a fixed phrase, often on signs or notices. It comes after the noun it describes, like 'parking patrons only'.
Patterns
- something is patrons only
- patrons only sign
The sign on the door said 'Patrons Only', so we had to show our membership cards.
This lounge is patrons only, so you need to buy a drink to sit here.
The restroom is for patrons only; please ask a staff member for the key.
phrasefixed phrase
Restricted to people who are customers or clients, not open to everyone.
Grammar: Often used after a noun to show restriction, e.g. 'a club patrons only event'.
Patterns
- be for patrons only
- patrons only area
The free Wi-Fi is for patrons only, so you need to make a purchase to get the password.
They have a patrons only section at the back of the theater with extra legroom.
The library's special collection is patrons only; you must be a member to access it.
Common combinations
- patrons only sign
- The café has a patrons only sign near the power outlets.
- for patrons only
- The parking lot is for patrons only during business hours.
- patrons only area
- The VIP patrons only area has a private bar.
- patrons only restroom
- The staff told us the restroom was patrons only.
Synonyms and how they differ
- members only
- This means only people who have joined a club or organization can use it, while 'patrons only' focuses on paying customers rather than formal members.
- customers only
- This is very similar but less formal and less common on signs; 'patrons only' sounds slightly more polite or upscale.
- private
- This means not open to the public at all, while 'patrons only' allows anyone who is a paying customer.
Opposites
Word family
Commonly confused: patrons only or patience only? patrons only or patron only?
patrons only vs patience only
This sounds similar but is not a standard phrase. 'Patience' means the ability to wait calmly, so 'patience only' would not make sense on a sign.
patrons only vs patron only
This is a common misspelling; the correct form is 'patrons only' with a plural 'patrons' because it refers to multiple customers.
Practice
Which sentence uses 'patrons only' correctly?
Choose one answer.
The phrase 'patrons only' means the area or service is reserved for paying customers, so you need to make a purchase or be a member. Option 1 fits because it shows you must buy something to use the service. Option 2 is wrong because 'patrons only' does not mean free for everyone. Option 3 is wrong because it is about bringing food, not about who can use the place. Option 4 is wrong because 'patrons only' does not mean the shop is closed.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “patrons only”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.