Tip: meaning, definitions and examples

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tip

[tɪp ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

money

A small sum of money given to someone for performing a service; a gratuity.

Synonyms

bonus, gratuity, reward.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
tip	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
gratuity	A formal term for a tip, often used in more official settings or documents. The bill included a 15% gratuity for the service
bonus	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
reward	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

Examples of usage

He left a generous tip for the waiter.
Don't forget to give a tip to the bellboy.
She received a big tip for her excellent service.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

advice

A piece of advice or useful piece of information.

Synonyms

advice, hint, suggestion.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
tip	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.
advice	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.
hint	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.
suggestion	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?

Examples of usage

Here's a useful tip for cooking pasta al dente.
My grandmother always gives me great tips on gardening.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

give advice

To give advice or suggest something.

Synonyms

advise, recommend, suggest.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
tip	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	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	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	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

Examples of usage

She's always quick to tip me on the latest fashion trends.
He tipped me on the best way to invest my money.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'tip' likely comes from the 16th century, originally meaning 'to give.'
It has roots in the old English phrase 'tippe,' which means 'to tilt or to give.'
In the context of gratuity, it became popular in the 18th century as a way to reward service.

Cultural Practices

In many countries, tipping is a common way to show appreciation for good service, especially in restaurants.
Different cultures have unique tipping standards; for example, in Japan, tipping can be considered rude.
In some industries, like hospitality and travel, tips can form a substantial part of workers' income.

Science

The act of tipping can trigger a release of dopamine in the brain, making both the giver and receiver feel good.
Studies suggest that people are more inclined to tip if they perceive their server as friendly and attentive.
Research indicates that larger tips may lead to better service in future interactions due to relationships built.

Literature

The concept of giving tips appears in various literary works as a symbol of generosity or social class.
In Charles Dickens’ novels, tipping is often depicted as a way to navigate the class divide in Victorian society.
Modern fiction sometimes uses tipping to illustrate character relationships, showing how power dynamics play out.

Pop Culture

Tipping culture often surfaces in movies and television, sometimes humorously, as characters navigate dining and service.
The phrase 'I’ll give you a tip' is iconic in many comedy sketches, used to suggest giving clarity or advice humorously.
In popular songs, tipping can symbolize appreciation and kindness, expressing gratitude in various forms.

Translations

Translations of the word "tip" in other languages:

🇵🇹 dica

🇮🇳 सुझाव

🇩🇪 Tipp

🇮🇩 tip

🇺🇦 порада

🇵🇱 wskazówka

🇯🇵 ヒント

🇫🇷 conseil

🇪🇸 consejo

🇹🇷 ipuç

🇰🇷 팁

🇸🇦 نصيحة

🇨🇿 tip

🇸🇰 tip

🇨🇳 提示

🇸🇮 nasvet

🇮🇸 ráð

🇰🇿 кеңес

🇬🇪 რჩევა

🇦🇿 məsləhət

🇲🇽 consejo

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,533, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.

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3530 switch
3531 specifications
3532 departure
3533 tip
3534 dying
3535 illegal
3536 captain
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