how to use "cater to" in English

 The phrasal verb "cater to" in English has two main meanings:

1. To provide what is needed or desired by a particular group of people:

This is the more common meaning. It implies tailoring services, products, or activities to meet the specific needs or preferences of a certain audience.

• Structure: Subject + cater to + Noun (the group or their needs/desires)
• Examples:
  • This restaurant caters to vegetarians and vegans. (Provides food options for them)
  • The hotel caters to families with young children by offering a kids' club. (Provides services specifically for families)
  • The software company designs programs that cater to the needs of small businesses. (Creates products suited for small businesses)
  • The travel agency caters to luxury travelers with high-end accommodations and exclusive tours. (Offers services for a specific type of traveler)
  • The school curriculum tries to cater to the different learning styles of its students. (Adapts teaching methods for various learners)

2. To try to please or satisfy a particular group, often in a way that is not considered morally right or appropriate:

This meaning often carries a slightly negative connotation, suggesting that someone is overly concerned with pleasing a specific group, sometimes at the expense of others or by compromising their own principles. It can imply pandering.

• Structure: Subject + cater to + Noun (the group)
• Examples:
  • The politician was accused of catering to the extreme right wing to gain votes. (Trying to please them, possibly by adopting controversial views)
  • Some critics argue that the media caters to the lowest common denominator to increase viewership. (Focusing on what might appeal to the largest audience, even if it lacks quality)
  • The advertisement seemed to be catering to stereotypes. (Appealing to a specific group based on oversimplified or negative assumptions)
  • He felt the company was catering to the demands of a few vocal customers, ignoring the needs of the majority. (Giving undue attention to a small group)

Key Points to Remember:

• Always followed by a noun or pronoun: "Cater to" is a transitive phrasal verb that always takes an object (the group being catered to or their needs).
• Context is important: The specific meaning of "cater to" depends heavily on the context in which it is used.
• Connotation: Be aware that the second meaning can have a negative connotation, implying excessive or inappropriate attempts to please a particular group.

In summary, "cater to" means either to provide what a specific group needs or wants, or to try very hard to please a particular group, sometimes in a negative way. Pay attention to the surrounding words and the overall situation to understand which meaning is intended.