gratuity
gruh-TOO-uh-tee
/ɡrəˈtjuːəti/
A sum of money given voluntarily to a service worker in addition to the basic charge; a tip.
More formal and legalistic than 'tip', often appearing on receipts, contracts, or corporate expense policies.
The story behind the word. Derived from Latin 'gratus' (pleasing), 'gratuity' originally referred to a gift given out of pure goodwill or favor, without legal obligation.
Word relationships
- tip: 'Tip' is informal everyday vocabulary, whereas 'gratuity' is used on official receipts and invoices.
- perk: A perk is a job benefit provided by an employer, whereas a gratuity is a cash gift given by a customer.
- penalty: A financial charge imposed as a punishment rather than a reward for service.
Commonly confused with
- gratitude: Gratitude is the emotional feeling of thankfulness, while gratuity is the actual monetary tip given.
Word family
- gratuitous (adjective): Given freely, or unnecessarily uncalled-for.
Collocations
- added gratuity
- discretionary gratuity
- gratuity included
- customary gratuity
Example sentences
- "A customary gratuity of fifteen percent was included at the bottom of the bill." Restaurant receipt policy
- "The app allows customers to add a gratuity before or after the delivery is completed." Gig economy policy
Memory hook
GRATUITY stems from GRATITUDE: show your gratitude with a gratuity! Gratitude turned into cash becomes gratuity.
When not to use
Do not use for mandatory taxes or official service charges that are not optional gifts to service staff.
Fun facts
- In many Asian countries like Japan, leaving a gratuity is considered offensive because high service standards are expected as part of the job.
Explore more words
lump sum, tribute, pension, contribution, Benefactor, compensate
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