B2 – Upper Intermediate
In recent years, Americans have been tipping less, a trend influenced by various factors including economic pressures and changing attitudes toward gratuity. This decline in tipping can significantly impact workers, particularly in service industries where tips often supplement low wages.
As employees rely on these additional earnings for their livelihood, reduced tipping not only affects their financial stability but also raises questions about the future of tipping culture in the U.S. Understanding this shift is crucial for both workers and consumers.
Watch the video and be able to answer the questions below.
Vocabulary Questions:
- What does the expression “fed up” mean? “In the U.S, a growing number of folks are fed up with tipping.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘fed up’ in your own sentence.
- What does the word “hassle” mean? “61% of the consumers would just rather pay higher prices on the menu as they don’t want the hassle of the tipping.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘hassle’ in your own sentence.
- What does the word “stingy” mean? Ex. People are a little worried about inflation so some people are getting cheaper and stingier. Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘stingy’ in your own sentence.
Discussion Questions:
- Do you think tipping should still be a common practice, or should businesses increase wages to reduce the reliance on tips? Explain.
- Should taxes on tips be eliminated? Share your point of view.
- How do you feel about the expectation to tip in situations where service fees are already included?
- Do you believe that tipping less is justified given the rising costs of living and inflation? Share your opinion.
- How does the cultural perception of tipping in the U.S. compare to that in other countries, and what can Americans learn from those differences?