What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
gratuity
Example
The restaurant added a 15% gratuity to the bill for parties of six or more. [gratuity: noun]
Example
I left a gratuity for the housekeeping staff at the hotel. [gratuity: noun]
tip
Example
I always tip my hairdresser 20% for a great haircut. [tip: verb]
Example
The bill includes a 10% tip for parties of eight or more. [tip: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tip is more commonly used than gratuity in everyday language. Tip is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while gratuity is less common and refers to a formal and professional setting.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between gratuity and tip?
Gratuity is more formal than tip and is often used in professional settings, such as restaurants, hotels, and salons. Tip is more casual and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.