Which term describes the satisfaction a consumer gains from buying goods and services?

Utility refers to the satisfaction or pleasure that a consumer derives from consuming goods and services. In economics, utility is a key concept that helps explain consumer behavior; it is a measure of the personal benefit received from consumption. When consumers make purchasing decisions, they often consider how much utility they expect to gain, which influences their willingness to pay for different products.

In contrast, consumption is the process of using goods and services, but it does not specifically capture the satisfaction aspect. Demand involves the desire and ability of consumers to purchase products at various price levels. Welfare typically refers to the overall well-being or quality of life of individuals or groups but is broader than just the satisfaction derived from consumption. Therefore, utility is the most precise term to describe the satisfaction gained from buying goods and services.