a princely tip

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a princely tip" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a generous or large gratuity given to someone, typically in the context of service industries like restaurants or hospitality. Example: "After enjoying a wonderful meal, I decided to leave a princely tip for the attentive waiter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Another princely flag, rather different from contemporary designs, is a silk tricolor with vertical stripes (blue hoist) and a princely crown painted in the center.

Wikipedia

Such a princely city.

The Guardian - Opinion

His pessimism won him a princely £25.

The Guardian

It's certainly not a princely sum.

The Guardian - Business

Consultations start at a princely £170.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The same could be said of a princely funeral — or, nowadays, of a princely divorce.

The New Yorker

Before the British took control, it was a princely state.

Independent

The cappuccino was superb, at a princely £3 (then $6).

The Economist

The Times Diary (TMS): a princely visit for Glastonbury?

The Times

In a princely ritual, intermediaries and assistants negotiate the arrangements.

The Guardian - Books

Philip Neal brought a princely bearing to the central male role.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a princely tip" to add a touch of humor or hyperbole when describing a very generous gratuity. It's more impactful than simply saying "a large tip".

Common error

Avoid using "a princely tip" in formal or professional writing. Opt for more neutral terms like "generous gratuity" or "substantial tip" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a princely tip" functions as a noun phrase, where "princely" modifies the noun "tip". It describes the characteristic of the tip, indicating its generosity or large size. As indicated by Ludwig, it's usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a princely tip" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe a very generous tip, evoking a sense of extravagance. According to Ludwig, it is correct and usable in written English. While understandable, it's best suited for informal or neutral contexts rather than formal writing, where alternatives like "a generous gratuity" would be more appropriate. Remember that its usage aims to emphasize the exceptional nature of the tip, often with a touch of humor. It's also important to note that it should be avoided to be used in formal context, as recommended.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a royal tip

A simpler variation using "royal" instead of "princely" to denote high value or generosity.

a generous gratuity

Replaces "tip" with a more formal term, "gratuity", while maintaining the sense of generosity.

a lavish tip

Emphasizes the extravagance of the tip, highlighting its large amount.

a handsome tip

Uses "handsome" to describe the tip, suggesting it is pleasing and substantial.

a magnificent tip

Conveys the grand and impressive nature of the tip.

a substantial tip

Focuses on the significant amount of the tip.

a king's ransom in tip

Uses hyperbole to illustrate an extremely large tip.

a golden tip

Figuratively suggests the tip is precious and valuable, like gold.

a munificent tip

Replaces "princely" with a synonym implying exceptional generosity and magnanimity.

an extravagant tip

Highlights the excessive and luxurious nature of the tip.

FAQs

What does "a princely tip" mean?

The phrase "a princely tip" refers to a very generous or large tip, similar to what a prince might give. It implies extravagance and abundance.

What can I say instead of "a princely tip"?

You can use alternatives like "a generous tip", "a lavish gratuity", or "a substantial tip".

Is it appropriate to use "a princely tip" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "a princely tip" is better suited for informal contexts. In formal writing, consider alternatives like "generous gratuity" or "significant tip".

How can I use "a princely tip" in a sentence?

You might say, "The service was exceptional, so I left a princely tip." It adds emphasis to the size and generosity of the tip.