It really depends. If it is someone you just want to give a token gift to, or they want something bigger and this can go toward it great- but if it is done out of laziness or not caring, then it is indeed in poor taste- as in a husband who gives his wife a gift card for every event. man up!

Especially good for people you appreciate but don't know as well like teachers and co-workers

People may need cards with money or gift cards more than material items right now.

They are easy to ship and you do not have to worry about size. Very practical during this time when we do not see each other in person. Just make sure they are for a place that the recipient is likely to patronize.

Ultimately I think it depends on the gift card and the recipient. Is is something they want or will use? Some people might prefer a gift card, and for a small child I would always buy a physical gift!

We ask for gift cards every year. We save them for rainy days or for dining out when on vacation. My family lives that they have brought us joy.

I have no idea what to buy from Harbor Freight (hardware) for the nice man i live with. He is a woodworker. But he appreciates the gift card. I supplement with pictures of our dogs, on a mug or socks, so he gets something personal too.

People have such differing tastes and needs. Unless you know for sure that the gift you get is practical, rather than the person having to return it to get what they really want, a gift card allows them to do that. Especially with all the travel restrictions, much easier to use gift cards online.

It's so easy for the person that you don't really know what very well or the person who has everything

It's hard to know what someone will like but, if you know their hobbies, an appropriate gift card will always get them what they want. You can use most gift cards online now so they don't even have to keep track of the physical card.

Some people are very hard to buy for. I would rather give them a gift card to their favorite restaurant or store so they can choose what they want.

It depends on who it is for I think it allows people to be helped or to really get something that they enjoy

I'm busy. As in essential worker, single parent of three busy. If I could shop and I see something that I know my loved one will adore, I'd get it and give it. However, it isnt always that easy. Giftcards make it simple and allow the gifted to buy what they buy.

I've never been offended when someone gave me a gift card. I would rather use it and purchase something I want vs being gifted something I cannot use.

But I still buy or make a gift. A gift card would probably be a better option so the person can buy what she likes.

The most easiest way of shopping for me.

I think its better so they can pick their own gift.

In this day and age so many people have everything and more. I always designate it for a special dinner somewhere or an event they normally would not indulge in -

As people get older they get what they want and know exactly what they want...so guessing color, size, brand or anything these days is usually not exactly what they'd buy so if you give them a gift card they can pick exactly what they want

Easier especially for hard people to buy for

some people say it's impersonal, but I don't think so. You have to still put thought into it, and as others have said, the gift cards are needed moreso this year than ever!

I think the level of appropriateness varies depending on the relationship between the giver & the receiver. I personally prefer actual gifts but this is often not practical because so many off the people in my circle buy me gifts that are too large or too small, which can't be returned or exchanged.

It ensures that the recipient will get something they want or need, rather than my guessing what color/pattern/item they might like. Also allows them to take time to decide what they want or save it for another time.

Its pretty much gifting cash

Let them get what they want from the beginning, rather than them needing to return or exchange an item.

I always appreciate a gift card. My favorite is to Fred Meyer where they have everything.

My father in law is in his 90's and has a Christmas Eve birthday. He still lives on his own so has rent to pay which probably doesn't leave him much money for the month. We buy him grocery store gift cards and lottery gift cards. At his age what else does he really need?

People usually will always use a gift card for something they really want or can use, towards a nice dinner, ect. Sometimes specific gifts just don't hit the mark and may be regifted.

Perfect for teens

Everyone loves to receive a gift card. You can buy anything you want!

I love to receive them, taking them with me when I need to do some emotional shopping is great cuz no guilt! I love to give them too because of the variety out there, I can always find ones that show the person just how much I know them!

If I know someone likes a certain store or brand, I see nothing wrong with giving them a gift card. I like gift cards and use them to put them toward something I really want or something I that costs more than I spend.

Sometimes having money for your favorite store or restaurant and the power to choose your own gift is really fun!

I think it is practical. I usually get gift cards or money. It's just easier so the person can get what they want. and you dont have to worry about them not liking the gift.

Unless you have a specific list to work from it's the way to make sure what you get fits and doesn't have to be exchanged.

I would rather get a gift card to purchase something I want or need. Rather than getting cheap inexpensive useless crap like I did when I got married 35 years ago.

Always

as an older adult I have to much stuff already