チップ
chippu[t͡ɕip̚pɯ̟]
In Japanese, the English word 'tip' is translated as チップ (chippu) when referring to a gratuity.
In Japanese, チップ refers specifically to a gratuity or service charge left for service staff. It is not used to mean a piece of advice or a helpful hint.
Meaning: piece of advice (noun)
Which one should you use?
While English uses 'tip' for both a gratuity and a piece of advice, Japanese distinguishes between these concepts. Use チップ for money left for service, but use 助言 or コツ for a piece of advice or a knack.
How do you pronounce it?
chippu
What mistakes should you avoid?
Do not use チップ when you mean to give someone a piece of advice. Instead, use 助言 for formal advice or コツ for informal tips and tricks.
Did you know?
- In Japan, leaving a チップ can be seen as an insult or a sign that you believe the staff needs charity, as high-quality service is considered a standard duty.
- In traditional Japanese inns called ryokan, guests might give a 心付け 'kokorozuke' to staff, which is a formal gift given upon arrival rather than a tip left upon departure.
- The term チップ can also be used in computer science to refer to a 'chip' on a circuit board, a meaning completely unrelated to both advice and gratuity.
Examples in context
- チップを置きましたか。Did you leave a tip?This sentence is useful for asking if a tip was left.Tatoeba #138759 by KK_kaku_, translation #2423 by CK
- チップにけちけちしないこと。Don't be mean with the tip.This sentence is useful for advising someone not to be stingy with a tip.Tatoeba #202983 by bunbuku, translation #40217 by shekitten
- ポーターに荷物を運んでもらったら、チップを渡すのを忘れちゃだめだよ。If a porter carries your luggage, don't forget to tip him.This sentence is useful for reminding someone to tip a porter.Tatoeba #1515651 by CHNO, translation #1963270 by CK
- あのプロのテニス選手からアドバイスをもらいましたI received some tips/advice from that professional tennis player.
- 貴重な助言をありがとうございますThank you for your valuable advice/tip.
- ピアノを上手に弾くためのコツを教えてくださいPlease give me tips on how to play the piano better.
Example conversation
Misaki and Daisho are talking about their trip to America.
- 美咲 Misakiアメリカではチップを払う習慣があるよ。Amerika de wa chippu o harau shūkan ga aru yo.In America, there is a custom of paying tips.
- 大翔 Hirotoチップはいくらくらい渡せばいいのかな？Chippu wa ikura kurai wataseba ii no kana?How much should I give for a tip?
- 美咲 Misakiだいたい15パーセントから20パーセントだよ。Daitai jūgo pāsento kara nijū pāsento da yo.It is usually about 15 to 20 percent.
- 大翔 Hirotoなるほど、忘れないようにするよ。Naruhodo, wasurenai yō ni suru yo.I see, I'll make sure not to forget.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry チップ, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
