Reading Theme:
Tip Meaning and Usage with Examples (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：gratuity (Tip)
Tip
/tɪp/
n. & v.
A small amount of extra money you give to someone, like a waiter, to thank them for good service.
gratuity
➕
/ɡrəˈtjuːɪti/
n. & v.
A small amount of money given to a service worker (e.g., waiter) in addition to the bill, as a reward for good service.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Old English 'typpan' (tap/give top); evolved to mean gratuity or advice.
💡 Mnemonic
Think 'Tip' as 'To Improve Procedure' – extra payment or helpful advice improves your experience.
📖 Example
The service at the restaurant was excellent, so we left a 20% tip on the table.
The service at the restaurant was excellent, so we left a 20% tip on the table.
🔗 Collocations
leave a tip – to leave extra money for service
generous tip – a large gratuity
tip jar – a container for receiving gratuities
🔄 Synonyms
📖 Cultural Story
Tipping culture began in 17th-century Europe; 'tip' was an acronym for 'To Insure Promptitude' in taverns. Modern usage widely accepted in service industries.
Meaning 2：hint (Tip)
Tip
/tɪp/
n. & v.
A helpful piece of advice or a small fact that makes something easier or better.
hint
➕
/hɪnt/
n. & v.
A small piece of practical advice or a useful suggestion to make a task easier or more effective.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
My friend gave me a useful tip for learning vocabulary: use flashcards every day.
My friend gave me a useful tip for learning vocabulary: use flashcards every day.
🔗 Collocations
helpful tip – a piece of useful advice
tip on how to – advice regarding a method
top tip – the most important piece of advice
🔄 Synonyms
suggestion (n.) – an idea or plan put forward for consideration
advice (n.) – guidance or recommendations offered
pointer (n.) – a helpful piece of information or hint
Wordbook
Your data is saved in this browser