prize

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "prize" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an award or recognition given for achievement or excellence in a particular field or competition. Example: "She won the first prize in the science fair for her innovative project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Music

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Our tutors include: Oliver Burkeman - Guardian writer and author; Kate Mosse - author of Labyrinth and co-founder of the Women's Prize for Fiction (formerly the Orange Prize; Jimmy Cregan - founder of Jimmy's Iced Coffee; Tobias Sturt and Adam Frost - directors of data visualisation agency Graphic and former Guardian employees; Peter Bradshaw - journalist, author and Guardian film critic.

The Guardian

The EU may be getting the booby prize for peace because it sure hasn't created prosperity.

The Guardian

By giving the prize to the EU, the Nobel committee has undermined the excellent work of the other deserving winners of this prize.

The Guardian

Nobel, a wealthy Swedish industrialist who invented dynamite, provided few directions for how to select winners, except that the prize committees should reward those who "have conferred the greatest benefit to mankind".

The Guardian

In 2002 Art Solidari won a €15,000 prize from the city council and that allowed Blasco and López to employ a part-time co-ordinator, the NGO's only paid employee, to recruit and manage the volunteers and the workshops they run.

The Guardian

4. GNM accepts no responsibility for any damage, loss, liabilities, injury or disappointment incurred or suffered by you as a result of entering the Competition or accepting the prize.

The Guardian

The prize is non-exchangeable, non-transferable and not redeemable for cash or any other prize.

The Guardian

In the entrance to the Abba Museum in Stockholm on Tuesday, the owner of the first ticket to Sweden's newest tourist attraction proudly displays his prize.

The Guardian - Music

Besides the prize money, each laureate receives a diploma and a gold medal.

The Guardian

Worth 8m kronor each, the Nobel prizes are always handed out on 10 December, the anniversary of prize founder Alfred Nobel's death in 1896.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Mr Mallon, 65, moved to quell speculation that he would be the natural successor to the Nobel prize-winning Mr Hume within 24 hours of the leader's resignation.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about competitions, use "prize" to refer to what is won. Be specific about the type of "prize", such as a cash "prize", a trophy, or an award.

Common error

Avoid using "prize" when you mean "price", which is the amount of money for which something is bought or sold. "Prize" refers to something won in a competition or given as an award.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "prize" is as a noun, referring to something won or awarded. It can also function as an adjective, modifying another noun to indicate that something is of exceptional quality or has won a "prize". Ludwig confirms its correct and versatile usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Sport

25%

Music

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Science

6%

Encyclopedias

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "prize" is a versatile term, primarily functioning as a noun to denote an award or something won. As noted by Ludwig, its usage is grammatically sound and widespread. It commonly appears in contexts related to news, sports, and music. Related terms include "award", "reward", and "trophy", each carrying slightly different nuances. When using "prize", ensure you differentiate it from "price" and be specific about the type of "prize" being referenced. Whether describing a Nobel "prize" or a contest "prize", understanding its proper usage enhances clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

award

A general term for something given to someone as a recognition of merit or achievement.

reward

Something given in return for service, merit, or hardship.

trophy

A tangible symbol of victory or achievement, often a cup or statue.

accolade

An expression of praise or admiration.

honor

A mark of respect or distinction.

distinction

A special quality or feature that marks something as excellent.

plum

Something desirable or valuable.

boon

A thing that is helpful or beneficial.

benefit

An advantage or profit gained from something.

jackpot

A large cash prize or award, often won in a game of chance.

FAQs

How is the term "prize" typically used in a sentence?

The term "prize" is usually used as a noun to refer to an award or something won in a competition. For example, "She won the first "prize" in the writing contest." It can also be used as an adjective, as in "a "prize"-winning performance".

What are some alternatives to the word "prize"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "award", "reward", or "trophy". Each of these carries a slightly different nuance, so choose the one that best fits the specific situation.

Is it correct to say "winning a prize" or "winning a reward"?

Both "winning a prize" and "winning a reward" are correct, but they are used in slightly different contexts. A "prize" is typically associated with competitions or contests, while a "reward" can be given for services, merit, or other contributions.

What's the difference between a "prize" and a "gift"?

A "prize" is something won or awarded in a competition or contest, whereas a "gift" is something given voluntarily without expectation of return. A "prize" often involves skill or chance, while a "gift" is usually an expression of goodwill.