Gratuity Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ธ
gratuity
[ษกrษหtjuหษชti ]
Definitions
in a restaurant
A gratuity is a tip that is given to a waiter or waitress in addition to the bill for the meal. It is usually a percentage of the total bill and is a way to show appreciation for good service.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| gratuity |
Gratuity is typically used for a sum of money given to someone for their services, especially in a formal or professional setting. This term is often used in the context of end-of-service benefits.
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| tip |
Tip refers to a small amount of extra money given to someone who provides a service, like a waiter or taxi driver. It is usually informal and voluntary.
|
| reward |
Reward is a broad term used to describe any form of compensation or benefit given in recognition of an achievement or good behavior. It can be used in various contexts.
|
| bonus |
Bonus is used to describe extra money given to employees as a reward, usually based on performance or company profits. This term is commonly used in the workplace.
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Examples of usage
- The gratuity is not included in the bill, so you can decide how much to tip the server.
- It is customary to leave a 15-20% gratuity for good service at a restaurant.
general usage
A gratuity is a small sum of money given in return for a service rendered, especially when it is not obligatory.
Synonyms
bribe, tip, token of appreciation.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| gratuity |
Often refers to a sum of money given voluntarily for services, typically in a formal or semi-formal setting, such as a hotel, restaurant, or transportation. It is generally recognized as a polite and appreciative gesture.
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| tip |
Commonly used to denote a small amount of money given to someone for their service, usually in informal settings like restaurants, bars, or personal services. It is a more casual term than 'gratuity.'
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| token of appreciation |
Refers to a small gift or gesture given to show gratitude, often not necessarily monetary, and used in both personal and professional settings.
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| bribe |
Used when referring to money or gifts given to someone to influence their behavior or decisions, typically in an illegal or unethical way. This term has a strongly negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- I always leave a gratuity for the housekeeping staff when staying at a hotel.
- The tour guide was so informative that we decided to give him a gratuity at the end of the tour.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Practices
- In the U.S., the social norm is to tip between 15-20% at restaurants, though this can vary based on the quality of service.
- In Japan, tipping can be seen as rude, as excellent service is considered standard, whereas in other cultures it is part of the dining experience.
- Some countries include service charges directly in the bill, making tips less common.
History
- Historically, gratuities date back to the 16th century in England where it began as gifts of appreciation to servants.
- In colonial America, tipping became popular in the 19th century as a way to supplement low wages for service workers.
- The practice faced criticism in the early 20th century, seen by some as a sign of class disparity.
Psychology
- Giving gratuities can enhance the giver's mood, creating a sense of social connection and gratitude.
- Customers who leave tips often feel more satisfied with their dining experience, as they believe they are rewarding good service.
- Studies suggest that tipping can also relate to social status, where higher earners may tip more to signify their economic position.
Economics
- Tips can represent a significant portion of income for many service workers, sometimes constituting more than half of their earnings.
- In certain industries, such as hospitality, the reliance on gratuities can shape pay structures and influence hiring practices.
- The debate continues about whether tips should be treated as part of taxable income, affecting financial and tax policies globally.
Origin of 'gratuity'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'gratus,' meaning 'thankful' or 'pleasing,' highlighting the idea of giving thanks.
- It entered the English language in the early 18th century, reflecting social practices of rewarding service.
- 'Gratuity' is often shortened to 'tip,' which has an unclear origin but may stem from an old phrase meaning 'To Insure Promptitude.'
The word 'gratuity' originated from the Latin word 'gratuitas', which means 'thankfulness' or 'grace'. In the 1540s, 'gratuity' started to be used in English to refer to a gift of money given to someone for their service. Over time, the meaning evolved to specifically denote tips or additional payments given as a gesture of gratitude. The practice of giving gratuities, especially in the service industry, has become a common way to show appreciation for good service.
See also: gratitude.