first prize

USAGE SUMMARY

"first prize" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a prize that is awarded for first place in any sort of competition or contest. For example: "Butterworth was awarded the first prize for his painting at the local art show."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He won first prize.

The New Yorker

It took first prize.

The New York Times - Food

The committee awarded it first prize.

The New Yorker

With a first prize of $10,000?

The New York Times - Books

"Then give him first prize".

The New York Times - Arts

First prize was a front-end alignment.

The New York Times

First prize was a $500 shopping spree.

The New York Times

First prize is a Cadillac Eldorado.

The Guardian - Opinion

A schooner was awarded first prize.

The New Yorker

First prize is a piece of liver".

The New York Times

He claimed the $630,000 first prize.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about competitions or contests, use "first prize" to clearly indicate the award given to the winner. Make sure the context clarifies what the prize entails, for example, "The first prize was a scholarship."

Common error

Avoid using "first prize" interchangeably with similar phrases like "grand prize" or "top honor" unless the specific context aligns. "Grand prize" might imply a more significant award, while "first prize" simply denotes winning. Ensure accuracy and clarity in your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "first prize" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It identifies the award or recognition given to the winner of a competition or contest. Ludwig AI shows this phrase is very commonly used to describe rewards and achievements.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "first prize" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe the award given to the winner of a competition. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage spans various contexts, from news reports to scientific publications. Alternative phrases like "grand prize" or "top honor" exist, offering subtle differences in meaning. When using "first prize", ensure that the context clearly defines the award and avoids confusion with related terms. Remember that clear and precise language enhances the effectiveness of your writing. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its correct and varied application.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

First place award

More explicit than "first prize", specifying that it's an award for achieving first place.

Number one prize

Directly states the prize is for the number one position.

Grand prize

Indicates the most significant award in a competition, often larger or more prestigious than other prizes.

Premier award

Implies that the prize is the best and most important.

Top honor

Refers to the highest recognition or award, similar to winning "first prize".

Top award

A simpler way to say the best award was given.

Victory prize

Highlights the prize associated with achieving victory.

Winning award

Highlights the act of winning itself, focusing on the achievement.

Championship title

Emphasizes the achievement of winning a championship.

Gold medal

Specifically refers to the award given for first place in sports or similar competitions.

FAQs

How to use "first prize" in a sentence?

You can use "first prize" to describe the award given to the winner of a competition. For example: "She won "first prize" in the science fair", or "The "first prize" is a trip to Hawaii".

What can I say instead of "first prize"?

You can use alternatives like "grand prize", "top honor", or "first place award" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "first prize" or "1st prize"?

Both "first prize" and "1st prize" are acceptable, but "first prize" is generally preferred in formal writing. "1st prize" is more common in informal contexts or when space is limited.

What's the difference between "first prize" and "grand prize"?

"First prize" simply denotes the award for achieving first place. "Grand prize" often implies a larger or more prestigious award than other prizes in the competition.