“Let the buyer beware”: meaning, origin and examples
What it means
Let the buyer beware is a principle that suggests that a buyer alone is responsible for checking the quality and suitability of goods before a purchase is made. It implies that the buyer assumes the risk of any potential defects or issues.
Tone Cautionary
Where it comes from
The phrase comes from the Latin term caveat emptor, which was used in the 16th century to indicate that the risk of a transaction is solely on the buyer.
Examples
- When buying a used car, keep in mind ‘let the buyer beware’ and thoroughly inspect the vehicle before making a purchase.
- At the flea market, many items are sold ‘as is,’ so it’s a case of ‘let the buyer beware.’
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