a consolation prize

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a consolation prize" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used when describing a smaller or less desirable reward given to someone who has not won first place or achieved their desired goal. Example: "Although she did not win the competition, receiving a consolation prize for her efforts was still a pleasant surprise."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A consolation prize, it seemed.

The New York Times

It's hardly a consolation prize.

The Washington Post

Television was a consolation prize.

The New York Times

Or worse, a consolation prize.

The New York Times

It was a consolation prize.

The New York Times

This is, actually, a consolation prize.

University of California, Berkeley

But how's this for a consolation prize?

The New York Times - Tech

So is this a consolation prize?

The Guardian

Suggest forward momentum or a consolation prize.

Harvard Business Review

At least one was a consolation prize.

The New York Times

Is anywhere but Toronto a consolation prize?

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase “a consolation prize” to acknowledge a less desirable outcome while still highlighting a positive aspect or benefit. This can soften the impact of disappointment.

Common error

Avoid presenting “a consolation prize” as equal to the desired outcome. Doing so can diminish the actual value of what was hoped for and seem insincere.

Linguistic Context

The phrase “a consolation prize” functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It identifies something given to someone who didn't achieve their primary goal, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, “a consolation prize” is a common noun phrase used to describe something of lesser value given to someone who didn't achieve their primary goal. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. It’s important to use it appropriately to acknowledge effort without diminishing the value of the desired outcome. While frequently appearing in news and media, the phrase also finds use in academic and formal contexts. Remember to choose synonyms like “a secondary honor” or “an alternative reward” for more formal settings. The phrase should soften the impact of disappointment.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a second prize

Directly indicates finishing in second place.

a runner-up reward

Focuses on the reward aspect of finishing second.

a second-best option

Highlights the choice of an alternative when the first preference is unavailable.

a fallback position

Emphasizes the strategic aspect of having something to rely on if the primary plan fails.

a participation award

Emphasizes that the award is given simply for taking part, regardless of success.

a booby prize

Informal term for a humorous or trivial prize given to the loser.

a small victory

Highlights the positive aspect of achieving something even if expectations were higher.

a token of appreciation

Highlights the gratitude behind receiving something, even if it's not the main objective.

a silver lining

Focuses on the positive aspect of a negative situation.

a compromise

Highlights an agreement reached after both parties made concessions.

FAQs

How can I use "a consolation prize" in a sentence?

You can use "a consolation prize" to describe something received that is less than desired but still appreciated. For example, "Although they didn't win the championship, the team received a trophy as "a consolation prize"."

What's a more formal way to say "a consolation prize"?

In a more formal context, consider using "a secondary honor", "an alternative reward", or "a gesture of recognition" instead of "a consolation prize".

Is it always appropriate to offer "a consolation prize"?

Offering "a consolation prize" is appropriate when acknowledging effort or participation, but avoid using it if it downplays the significance of the loss or if the context is highly sensitive.

What's the difference between "a consolation prize" and "a participation trophy"?

A consolation prize generally implies some level of achievement, even if not the highest, while a participation trophy is given solely for taking part, regardless of performance.