gratuity

10 synonyms for gratuity, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.

Noun — A sum of money given to a member of staff for good service, especially in a restaurant or hotel; a tip.

Synonyms

Everyday swaps

Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.

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Rare, literary or technical

Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.

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Synonyms by Meaning

1. noun formal

A sum of money given to a member of staff for good service, especially in a restaurant or hotel; a tip.

“A gratuity of 12.5 per cent has been added to your bill.”

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2. noun formal

A lump sum paid to an employee or member of the armed forces on leaving or retiring.

“He received a modest gratuity after twenty-two years' service.”

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How to use gratuity

The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.

a gratuity is included discretionary gratuity leave a gratuity gratuities not included

Formal. Menus, invoices and cruise contracts use gratuity; people speaking use tip.

Etymology

Via French gratuité from medieval Latin gratuitas, 'gift', from Latin gratus, 'pleasing, thankful'.

Full origin of gratuity →

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a gratuity and a service charge?

A gratuity is normally voluntary and decided by the customer. A service charge is added by the business as a set percentage and may be compulsory. How each is shared with staff depends on the venue and on local law, so it is fair to ask.

Is a gratuity the same as a tip?

Yes in meaning; the difference is register. Gratuity is the formal word used on bills and in contracts, while tip is what people say and write informally.

Do I still tip if a gratuity is included?

Usually not. If the bill already shows a gratuity or service charge, the expectation has been met, though many people round up for unusually good service.

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