Reason number 6: The phrase 'hat tip'

While this blog supports giving credit where credit's due, both Gutenberg and I have problems with the phrase "hat tip". This, of course, is form by which one blogger tips his hat to another for a good find. Our issue is it is the kind of folky-colloquial nonsense no one ever says. It is only one step away from "a tip of the proverbial", for goodness sake. In common with all other uses of the word "proverbial" (except where you are describing the nature of a proverb) it is almost always used in the joshy-matey register of one who seldom speaks to others, but wants to give the impression of being a raconteur on those rare occasions that they do. So don't put your social insecurities out on show - if you want to say 'thanks' say it.