Award or Reward?

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What Is the Difference between "Award" and "Reward"?

"Award" and "reward" are easy to confuse.

• "Award" is a mark of recognition (e.g., a medal) for an achievement. For example
• It is an award for winning the high jump.
• I don't deserve this award, but I have arthritis, and I don't deserve that either. (Entertainer Jack Benny)
• "Reward" is something given in return for service or effort. For example:
• It is my reward for working all week without a break.
• The reward of suffering is experience. (US President Harry S Truman)

More about "Award" and "Reward"

Award

An "award" is an honor (such as a medal or trophy) that somebody receives as a mark of recognition for an achievement. "Awards" are usually given after a decision made by a committee of judges.

Example sentences with "award":

• He was given an award for 20 years' loyal service.
• I never knew I'd be in a musical, let alone win an award for one. (Actress Nicole Kidman)
• I feel a deep emotion and pride for the honor of having been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for 1992. (Activist Rigoberta Menchu)
(Here, "awarded" is from the verb "to award.")

Reward

A "reward" is something (usually money) given in return for a person's service, effort, or hardship.

Example sentences with "reward":

• There is a reward for information about the burglary.
• We're offering a cash reward for the safe return of our dog.
• Goodness and hard work are rewarded with respect. (Rapper Luther Campbell)
(Here, "rewarded" is from the verb "to reward.")

Summary

"Man gives you the award, but God gives you the reward." (Actor Denzel Washington)

Ready for the Test?