But as for the more tangible prize of the moment, control of the Senate, Democrats say they do not see all that much to worry about, at least not now.
In the Middle East, where leaders are sensitive to the slightest signs of weakness, it is considered unimaginable that a country that has given so much in a war — in lives and money — would walk away without a tangible prize.
Securing a tangible prize was important to the Belgians, who were often referred to mockingly as the "world champions of friendlies" because of their habit of beating the best in the world in matches that didn't matter so much, going right back to a 5-4 victoverover the Mighty Magyars of Hungary in 1956.
Maybe, but GM's rivals would enjoy the same benefit while enjoying a free ride.The real prize for GM might, however, be something much more tangible.
The more tangible consolation prize lay in Harrington's locker: a pair of green, black and white Nikes with Pierce's No. 34 on the heels and his signature across the toes.
Ms. Fontana, 54, was nominated largely because of the many letters of gratitude she has received from clients over the years, which she called her "most prized tangible reminder of the good that lawyers can do".
He has won a less tangible but more valuable prize.
"It's hard to really measure the tangible benefits of this prize so far, but Web Concert Hall helps get you out there, and that is important," said Albert Tiu, a pianist from the Philippines who is one of three winners of the site's 2000 competition.
For the latter, bonuses are laid out as tangible yet difficult to attain prizes to boost your paltry wage.
Adding a sense of competition to a giving campaign or volunteer project increases participation, especially if there are tangible incentives such as name recognition, prizes and additional time off.
