Tip: meaning, definitions and examples

Given to service workers like waiters, taxi drivers, or hairdressers to show appreciation for good service.

• He left a 20% tip for the excellent service at the restaurant

A formal term for a tip, often used in more official settings or documents.

• The bill included a 15% gratuity for the service

An extra amount of money given to employees as a reward for good performance or to celebrate an occasion like Christmas.

• She received a year-end bonus for her outstanding work

Given in recognition of an achievement, for completing a task, or as an incentive. It can be monetary or in other forms.

• He received a reward for finding and returning the lost dog

Used for a small, practical piece of advice, often related to improving a skill or activity. Can also refer to a gratuity given to service workers.

• Here's a tip for baking: always preheat your oven.
• Don't forget to leave a tip for the waiter.

Used for more formal, comprehensive guidance or recommendations, often given by an expert or someone in a position of trust.

• She gave me some excellent advice on how to save money.
• You should always seek professional advice before making major decisions.

Used for a subtle or indirect suggestion or piece of information, often to help someone figure something out without revealing the answer directly.

• Can you give me a hint about the surprise?
• She dropped a hint that she wanted a new handbag for her birthday.

Used for proposing an idea or plan for someone to consider, usually in a casual or informal manner.

• I have a suggestion for our next team outing.
• Could you give me a suggestion on what to wear to the party?

Tip is usually used for giving practical advice, often in a casual or informal context. It is often related to small, useful pieces of information.

• She gave me a few tips on how to improve my cooking
• Here's a tip: always read the instructions carefully

Advise is used in more formal contexts and often involves giving guidance based on one's professional or expert knowledge. It implies a higher level of authority or expertise.

• Doctors advise regular exercise for better health
• The lawyer advised him to settle the case out of court

Suggest is used when presenting an idea or option for consideration. It is often used in situations where multiple options are available and the listener can choose whether to follow the suggestion or not.

• I suggest we go to the park instead of the mall
• She suggested trying a different approach to solving the problem

Recommend is used when suggesting something based on personal opinion or experience. It is commonly used when talking about personal preferences or professional suggestions.

• I recommend this restaurant; the food is amazing
• The teacher recommended some books to read during the holidays