I don't consider it rude. Some people go begging by writing complaining posts about not getting the full 50 claps. I pay little heed to them. My understand is that earnings is only calculated on the first clap, the first highlight, and the first comment. However, distribution may be boosted by more claps.

I will say, however, that the only time I give only one clap is when the writing is difficult to follow due to easily corrected errors. I mean, you can compose and check spelling and grammar in the platform without any external application with a simple command. Usually though, my average number of claps range from 5 to 10. For folks to whom I subscribe, it's usually the full 50 — but then, I'm subscribing to them because I love their writing.