awards - Master This Word
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awards Word Meanings
- to give someone a prize or reward
- to grant a right or title
- a prize given for achievement
awards Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
awards Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/əˈwɔːd/
US
/əˈwɔrd/
awards Word Etymology
award = a- (to) + ward (guard/keep) → Old French 'aguard' → English. Visualize a trophy or medal being presented, representing something that is kept safe and celebrated.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I set my hand on the mic and push the moment forward as I award the winner. I turn to the recipient, hold the trophy, and let the applause settle. The room shifts as pride rises and the air feels heavier with meaning. This is how award shows up in real life, a simple decision that places recognition where it belongs.
Real Context
An award is a formal recognition given to someone for achievement, effort, or service. In this sense, as a verb, to award means to give someone a prize, a right, or a title after a selection process, such as awarding a scholarship or awards to outstanding students. As a noun, an award is the prize, trophy, or certificate presented at a ceremony. Learners should note that award is commonly used with nouns like prize, grant, or title, and it carries a more formal, institutional tone than reward. The phrase award-winning signals notable quality; ceremonies and official recognitions are typical contexts.
Usage Reminders
- - Use award for formal recognition; reserve reward for compensation or incentives.
- - Notice the common collocations: award a prize, award a scholarship, award a title.
- - Distinguish 'award' (institutional recognition) from 'prize' (the tangible object).
- - Watch for 'award-winning' to describe highly recognized work.
- - In passive voice, you can say 'was awarded' rather than 'awarded'.
Common Misconceptions
- Award is the same as reward in all contexts.
- Award always refers to money or prize money.
- Award and prize are interchangeable in every sentence.
- An award must be given by a big organization only.
- Award cannot be used with non-physical recognitions like distinctions.
Thinking Differences
In English, award is a formal noun and verb that commonly pairs with institutions and ceremonies; many learners mix it with reward because both involve giving, but reward focuses on compensation whereas award signals official recognition.
Learning Tips
- Learn award with nouns: prize, scholarship, title, and certificate.
- Practice sentences using passive form: was awarded.
- Differentiate award from prize: award = recognition; prize = object.
- Use award-winning to describe highly recognized work.
- Remember common collocations: award ceremony, award a prize, award a grant.
- Be mindful of formal contexts (institutions, ceremonies).
Related Listening
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