microtip

A microtip is a very small amount of money given as a gratuity, typically for a service. The term is often used to describe tips that are perceived as insufficient or even insulting by the recipient. Microtips can arise from various situations, such as a customer having very little cash on hand, a misunderstanding of tipping customs, or a deliberate attempt to signal dissatisfaction with the service.

The concept of a microtip highlights the subjective nature of tipping. What one person considers a small, acceptable gratuity, another might view as a microtip. Factors influencing this perception include the overall cost of the service, the perceived effort of the service provider, and the cultural norms surrounding tipping in a particular region or industry. In some service industries, where wages are low and tips form a significant portion of income, even a small tip can feel like a microtip.

The use of microtips can lead to awkward interactions and can negatively impact the morale of service workers. While the intention behind a microtip may not always be malicious, the effect can be disheartening. Discussions around minimum wage, fair compensation, and the role of tipping in the service economy often touch upon the issue of microtips and the broader implications for those who rely on gratuities.