propina en efectivo
/pɾopina en efeɡtibo/from spelling rules
The English phrase "cash tip" is propina en efectivo in Spanish.
This phrase refers to a sum of money given as a gratuity using bills or coins. In many contexts, it is sufficient to simply say propina if the method of payment, whether cash or card, is already understood or implied.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of propina (tip), en (in) and efectivo (cash).
Is it said differently in some regions?
Propina en metálico is more commonly used in Spain and among Spanish speakers from Europe.
How does it change in a sentence?
To express the plural "cash tips", change propina to propinas, resulting in propinas en efectivo.
How do you pronounce it?
/pɾopina en efeɡtibo/
Did you know?
- The word propina originally had nothing to do with money or service, but instead referred to a drink offered as a toast or a libation to a deity.
- While common in the US, leaving a propina is not a mandatory social expectation in many Spanish-speaking countries and excessive tipping can be seen as unusual.
- Historically, a propina in formal Spanish contexts referred to a small fee paid to public officials to speed up a service.
Examples in context
- Le dejo una propina en efectivo.I'm leaving you a cash tip.
- ¿Puede traerme la cuenta y le daré una propina en metálico?Can you bring me the bill, and I'll give you a cash tip?
- ¡El almuerzo estuvo genial! Dame la cuenta y te doy una propinita.Lunch was amazing! Give me the bill, and I'll give you a little tip.
- Prefiero dejar una propina en efectivo.I prefer to leave a cash tip.
- El camarero agradeció la propina en efectivo.The waiter appreciated the cash tip.
- ¿Puedes darme la propina en efectivo?Can you give me the cash tip?
Example conversation
Elena and Mateo are paying the bill at a restaurant.
- ElenaVoy a pagar la cuenta con la tarjeta.I am going to pay the bill with the card.
- MateoEstá bien, pero deja una propina en efectivo.That's fine, but leave a cash tip.
- ElenaTienes razón, Mateo. Buscaré unos billetes.You're right, Mateo. I'll look for some bills.
- MateoGracias, Elena. Así es mejor para el mesero.Thanks, Elena. It's better for the waiter that way.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries efectivo, en, propina, CC BY-SA 4.0.
