Meaning of "backshish" in English

Backshish, often spelled baksheesh, originates from Persian and Arabic languages. It refers to a small sum of money or gratuity given as a tip, bribe, or charitable donation. Traditionally, it is a cultural practice in many Middle Eastern and South Asian countries. The concept of backshish encompasses both informal payments for services and goodwill offerings. While similar to tips or gratuities, backshish can sometimes imply a form of bribery if used to expedite services or gain favor. Understanding its cultural significance is crucial when traveling to regions where backshish is common.

Meaning of "backshish" in French

In French, "backshish" (or "bakchich") carries a similar meaning to its English counterpart. It denotes a small gratuity, tip, or informal payment given to service providers to ensure prompt service or show appreciation. While primarily seen as a gratuitous offering, in specific contexts, it could suggest a bribe to facilitate processes. The term is widely recognized in areas where French has historical influence and is understood in the context of Middle Eastern and North African traditions. It's important to differentiate it from formal tipping practices seen in Western cultures.

Pronunciation of "backshish" in English

Phonetic Transcription: [bækˈʃiːʃ]

Pronunciation Variations: In American and British English, "backshish" generally maintains consistent pronunciation, though regional accents may affect the emphasis on syllables slightly. In some dialects, the "a" may sound closer to "uh" or "ah."

Pronunciation of "backshish" in French

Phonetic Transcription: [bakˈʃiʃ]

Pronunciation Variations: French pronunciation of "backshish" might vary slightly, especially with regional accents where nasal sounds are more pronounced. The emphasis typically remains on the first syllable.

Sentence examples in English and translation to French

  1. He slipped the guard a small backshish to ensure quicker entry. (Il a glissé un petit bakchich au garde pour assurer une entrée plus rapide.)

  2. Tourists often give backshish to local guides for additional information. (Les touristes donnent souvent des bakchichs aux guides locaux pour obtenir des informations supplémentaires.)

  3. The café owner appreciated the backshish offered by the customer. (Le propriétaire du café a apprécié le bakchich offert par le client.)

  4. In certain countries, backshish is expected for small services. (Dans certains pays, un bakchich est attendu pour les petits services.)

  5. The tradition of backshish can be misunderstood by newcomers. (La tradition du bakchich peut être mal comprise par les nouveaux arrivants.)

  6. Offering a backshish helped expedite the paperwork process. (Offrir un bakchich a aidé à accélérer le processus de paperasse.)

  7. She learned about the custom of backshish during her travels. (Elle a appris la coutume du bakchich lors de ses voyages.)

  8. Some visitors see backshish as a gesture of goodwill. (Certains visiteurs considèrent le bakchich comme un geste de bonne volonté.)

  9. His refusal to give backshish sometimes led to longer wait times. (Son refus de donner un bakchich a parfois entraîné des temps d'attente plus longs.)

  10. The waiter was grateful for the generous backshish. (Le serveur était reconnaissant pour le généreux bakchich.)

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "backshish" in English

Synonyms: gratuity, tip, bribe, donation, gift, contribution, alms, sweetener, perk, bonus

Antonyms: penalty, fine, deduction, subtraction, -

Similar Words: reward, compensatory, token, inducement, favor, perk, stipend, offering, dole, -

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "backshish" in French

Synonyms: pourboire, gratuity, obole, pot-de-vin, aumône, contribution, cadeau, rétribution, don, générosité

Antonyms: amende, pénalité, retenue, sanction, -

Similar Words: récompense, cadeau, offrande, compensation, privilège, subside, prime, incitation, avantage, don

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