What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
tips
Example
I always leave a tip for the waiter when I eat out. [tip: noun]
Example
Can you give me some tips on how to improve my writing? [tips: plural noun]
Example
Be careful not to break the tip of the pencil. [tip: noun]
gratuity
Example
The restaurant added a 10% gratuity to our bill for large groups. [gratuity: noun]
Example
The salesperson received a gratuity for exceeding their sales target. [gratuity: noun]
Example
She did me a great gratuity by helping me move into my new apartment. [gratuity: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tips is more commonly used than gratuity in everyday language, especially in the service industry. Gratuity is more formal and less common, often used in legal or financial contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between tips and gratuity?
Gratuity is more formal than tips and is often used in legal or financial contexts. Tips is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
