Meaning: This quote by Marilyn Savant emphasizes the importance of knowing how and how much to tip people who expect gratuities, even in the case of poor service. Tipping is a customary practice in many cultures and industries, and it is often seen as a way to show appreciation for good service. However, Marilyn Savant's quote reminds us that tipping is also expected even when the service may not have met our expectations.

Tipping etiquette can vary widely depending on the country, region, and industry. In the United States, for example, tipping is a common practice in restaurants, bars, hotels, and other service-oriented businesses. However, in some European countries, service charges are often included in the bill, and tipping is not as prevalent.

The quote also touches on the idea of tipping even in the case of poor service. This can be a contentious issue for many people, as the instinctual response to bad service may be not to leave a tip. However, Marilyn Savant's quote suggests that regardless of the quality of service received, it is important to acknowledge the effort put forth by the service provider and to adhere to the customary tipping practices.

Tipping serves as a form of incentive for service providers to deliver good service, and it can also serve as a way to acknowledge the hard work and effort put forth by individuals in the service industry. However, tipping can also be a source of confusion and anxiety for many people, especially when it comes to determining how much to tip in different situations.

When it comes to determining how much to tip, there are no hard and fast rules, but there are general guidelines that can be followed. In the United States, it is customary to tip servers in restaurants around 15-20% of the total bill. For bartenders, a dollar per drink or 15-20% of the total bill is typically considered acceptable. Hotel staff, such as housekeepers and bellhops, are often tipped a few dollars per day or per service provided. Tipping in other service industries, such as hair salons, taxis, and spas, also varies but generally follows the 15-20% guideline.

In the case of poor service, some people may feel inclined not to leave a tip at all. However, Marilyn Savant's quote suggests that even in these situations, it is important to acknowledge the effort put forth by the service provider. In cases of poor service, it may be appropriate to leave a smaller tip than usual, but completely withholding a tip may not be seen as respectful or considerate.

It is important to remember that tipping practices can be influenced by cultural and regional norms, and it is always a good idea to research and understand the tipping customs of a particular location before traveling or engaging in services. Additionally, being mindful of the effort and hard work of service providers can help in making informed and considerate tipping decisions.

In conclusion, Marilyn Savant's quote serves as a reminder of the importance of knowing how and how much to tip people who expect gratuities, even in the case of poor service. Tipping is a customary practice that serves as a form of appreciation and acknowledgment for the efforts of service providers, and understanding tipping etiquette can help ensure respectful and considerate interactions in various service-oriented settings.