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A1 noun #3,838 most common 14 min read

prize

Top 3,838

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips prize in 30 Seconds

Explanation prize in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'prize' is a simple and exciting word. It refers to something you get when you win a game or a competition. Imagine you are playing a game with your friends, like a race. If you are the fastest and you come first, you might get a sticker or a small toy. That sticker or toy is a prize. In school, your teacher might give you a prize for doing good work. A prize can be many things: a book, a trophy, or even some candy. The important thing is that a prize is a happy thing you get because you did something well. You 'win' a prize. You can say, 'I won a prize today!' or 'The prize is a big chocolate cake.' It is a basic word that helps you talk about success and rewards in a very simple way. You will often see it in children's books or hear it in games. Remember, a prize is a gift for winning.

At the A2 level, you can use 'prize' in more specific contexts like school events or local sports. You understand that a prize is not just a gift, but a reward for a specific achievement. You can describe different types of prizes, such as 'first prize,' 'second prize,' or 'third prize.' For example, 'I got the second prize in the drawing contest.' You might also talk about 'prize money' in the context of a small competition. At this level, you can use 'prize' to talk about your hobbies and things you are proud of. You can also start to use it with more verbs, like 'receive a prize' or 'give a prize.' It's also important to start distinguishing it from 'price.' You know that a 'price' is what you pay in a shop, but a 'prize' is what you win. This distinction is a key part of moving up to the next level of English proficiency.

At the B1 level, you can use 'prize' to discuss more complex ideas like motivation and competition. You understand that prizes can be both physical objects and symbolic rewards. You can talk about international prizes like the Nobel Prize or the Oscars and understand their cultural significance. You can use the word in sentences like, 'The prize for the winner of the tournament is a scholarship to a top university.' You also begin to understand the figurative use of 'prize' as a verb, meaning to value something highly. For example, 'She prizes her independence above all else.' You can use more sophisticated adjectives to describe prizes, such as 'valuable,' 'prestigious,' or 'coveted.' You are also comfortable using 'prize' in various grammatical structures, including passive sentences like 'The prize was awarded to the most creative student.' This level allows you to engage in deeper conversations about what makes a prize important and why people work hard to win them.

At the B2 level, you have a firm grasp of the word 'prize' and its many nuances. You can use it in formal writing and professional contexts. You understand the difference between a 'prize,' an 'award,' and a 'reward' and can choose the most appropriate word for the situation. You can discuss the social and economic impact of major prizes, such as how a literary prize can increase a book's sales. You are familiar with common idioms like 'eyes on the prize' and can use them naturally in conversation. You can also use 'prize' as an adjective to describe things of exceptional quality, such as 'a prize-winning performance.' Your ability to use 'prize' in complex sentence structures, including those with relative clauses or conditional statements, is well-developed. For example, 'Had he not won the first prize, he might never have pursued a career in music.' This shows a high level of linguistic flexibility and an understanding of how 'prize' fits into the broader landscape of English vocabulary.

At the C1 level, your use of 'prize' is sophisticated and nuanced. You can explore the philosophical and psychological aspects of prizes, such as whether they are truly effective motivators or if they create unnecessary pressure. You can use the word in academic or literary analysis, discussing 'the prize' as a central motif in a story or a historical event. You are comfortable using rare or technical terms related to prizes, such as 'laureate' or 'accolade.' You can also use 'prize' as a verb in very formal or poetic contexts, such as 'a highly prized virtue in ancient society.' Your understanding of the word extends to its historical usage, including the maritime meaning of a captured vessel. You can write detailed essays or give presentations on the role of prizes in fostering innovation and excellence in various fields. Your command of the word allows you to use it with precision, elegance, and a deep understanding of its cultural and historical baggage.

At the C2 level, you have mastered the word 'prize' in all its forms and contexts. You can use it with the same ease and subtlety as a native speaker. You can engage in high-level debates about the ethics of certain prizes or the political motivations behind international awards. You can use 'prize' in highly idiomatic or metaphorical ways to express complex ideas. For example, you might describe a hard-won political victory as 'the ultimate prize in a long and difficult campaign.' Your writing is characterized by a sophisticated choice of synonyms and collocations that demonstrate a deep knowledge of the English language. You can also play with the word's meaning in creative writing, using it to evoke specific emotions or themes. Whether you are reading a dense legal document or a classic work of literature, you fully understand every nuance of how 'prize' is used. At this level, the word is not just a vocabulary item, but a tool you can use to communicate with precision, power, and style.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

prize in 30 Seconds

A prize is a reward for winning a competition or doing something great.
You can win prizes like trophies, money, or medals in sports and games.
It is different from 'price,' which is how much something costs in a shop.
Prestigious prizes like the Nobel recognize the highest level of human achievement.

The word prize serves as a cornerstone of human motivation and social structure, representing the tangible or intangible recognition of excellence, victory, or luck. At its most fundamental level, a prize is an item of value—be it a trophy, a sum of money, or a symbolic certificate—bestowed upon an individual or a collective entity in recognition of a specific achievement. This achievement most frequently occurs within the context of a competition, such as a sporting event, a mathematical Olympiad, or a literature contest. However, the application of the term extends beyond merit-based victories into the realm of chance, such as winning a prize in a lottery or a raffle. When we look at the psychological impact, a prize functions as a powerful incentive. It transforms the abstract concept of 'winning' into something concrete that can be held, displayed, or utilized. In childhood, a prize might be a simple sticker or a small toy, yet the emotional weight it carries is immense because it validates effort and success. As individuals move into professional spheres, prizes evolve into prestigious accolades like the Nobel Prize or the Pulitzer Prize, which not only reward past work but also establish a legacy. The word is ubiquitous because the concept of rewarding excellence is universal across all cultures. Whether it is a 'consolation prize' given to those who did not win but participated with spirit, or the 'grand prize' representing the pinnacle of a contest, the term encapsulates the intersection of effort, outcome, and social valuation.

Core Concept: A reward given for victory in a game, contest, or for merit.
Usage Context: Used in sports, education, gambling, and professional honors.

She was overjoyed to receive the first prize in the national science fair after months of research.

Beyond the noun form, 'prize' can also function as a verb, meaning to value something extremely highly. For instance, a collector might prize a rare stamp above all other possessions. This dual nature emphasizes the inherent worth associated with the word. In societal terms, prizes act as benchmarks. They define what a culture values at any given time. A prize for 'best sustainable innovation' highlights a modern priority, whereas a prize for 'marksmanship' might have been the primary focus in a different era. The word also carries a sense of exclusivity; a prize is rarely given to everyone, which creates a hierarchy of achievement. This exclusivity is what generates the 'prestige' often associated with high-level prizes. Even in everyday language, we use the word metaphorically. Someone might describe their partner as a 'real prize,' implying they are a person of great value and quality. This metaphorical leap shows how deeply the concept of a reward for excellence is embedded in our cognitive framework. Understanding 'prize' is not just about knowing it means 'an award'; it is about understanding the human drive to compete, to be recognized, and to possess things that signify success.

The Nobel Peace Prize is perhaps the most famous award in the world.

Tangible Examples: Cash, trophies, medals, ribbons, scholarships, and certificates.

In the digital age, the concept of a prize has expanded into virtual spaces. Gamers earn 'prizes' in the form of digital skins, badges, or in-game currency. While these lack physical form, their value within the digital community is significant, proving that the essence of a prize lies in its social and personal recognition rather than its material composition. This evolution shows the flexibility of the word and its continued relevance in a changing world. Furthermore, the word 'prize' is often used as an adjective to describe something of the highest quality, such as a 'prize bull' or a 'prize specimen.' This usage reinforces the idea that a prize represents the absolute best within a category. When you learn this word, you are learning the language of aspiration and accomplishment.

The raffle winner could choose between a new car or a cash prize.

They offered a massive prize to anyone who could solve the mystery.

Winning the top prize changed his life forever.

Using the word 'prize' correctly involves understanding its various grammatical roles and the typical collocations that accompany it. As a noun, 'prize' is countable, meaning you can have one prize or many prizes. The most common verb used with prize is 'win.' You win a prize through skill, luck, or effort. For example, 'He won the first prize in the marathon.' Another common verb is 'award.' An organization or a judge awards a prize to a recipient. 'The committee awarded the prize to the young pianist.' You can also 'enter' a competition 'for a prize' or 'compete for' a prize. The structure often follows: [Subject] + [Verb] + [Adjective] + prize. Adjectives like 'first,' 'second,' 'top,' 'grand,' 'major,' and 'prestigious' are frequently used to describe the nature and value of the prize. For example, 'The grand prize was a trip to Hawaii.'

Common Verb Pairings: Win, award, give, receive, accept, offer, claim, and present.
Common Adjectives: First, consolation, cash, annual, coveted, and prestigious.

Every student who finished the race received a small participation prize.

When using 'prize' in a more formal or academic context, it often appears in the names of specific awards, which are capitalized. For instance, 'The Booker Prize for Fiction' or 'The Nobel Prize in Physics.' In these cases, the word is part of a proper noun. Additionally, 'prize' can be used as a modifier before another noun to indicate high quality. 'A prize specimen' or 'a prize-winning author' are common examples. This attributive use suggests that the noun being modified is so good it deserves a prize. It is important to distinguish 'prize' from 'price.' While they sound similar, 'price' refers to the amount of money something costs, while 'prize' refers to the reward you get. Confusing these two is a common mistake for learners. To avoid this, remember that 'prize' has a 'z' sound like 'amazing,' which is how you feel when you win one.

The company offered a cash prize as an incentive for employees to meet their targets.

In informal settings, 'prize' can be used in idioms. For example, 'eyes on the prize' means to stay focused on your ultimate goal. If you are 'no prize,' it is a self-deprecating or insulting way to say you are not very attractive or desirable, though this is quite colloquial. Grammatically, 'prize' is very stable. It doesn't have many irregular forms. The plural is 'prizes,' and the verb forms are 'prizes,' 'prized,' and 'prizing.' When used as a verb, it is often seen in the passive voice or as a participle: 'A highly prized possession.' This emphasizes the value placed on the object by people in general. Whether you are writing a simple sentence for an A1 level or a complex thesis at C2, the word 'prize' remains a vital part of describing success and value.

Keep your eyes on the prize and don't let distractions slow you down.

Prepositional Phrases: In search of a prize, for a prize, with a prize.

The prize money was distributed equally among the team members.

She was the prize pupil of the prestigious academy.

The word 'prize' is heard in a vast array of social settings, from the high-stakes environment of international awards ceremonies to the casual atmosphere of a local pub quiz. In the media, you will hear it constantly during sports broadcasts. Commentators will talk about the 'ultimate prize' in football, which is the World Cup trophy. In the world of entertainment, award shows like the Oscars or the Grammys are centered entirely around the concept of giving prizes to the best performers and creators. News reports frequently mention 'Nobel Prize winners' or 'Pulitzer Prize-winning journalists,' using the word to signal the highest level of human achievement. If you watch game shows on television, the word 'prize' is used repeatedly to build excitement. Hosts will shout about the 'grand prize' behind 'door number three,' and contestants will express their hope to 'win the top prize.'

Media & News: Reporting on major awards like the Nobel, Pulitzer, or Man Booker.
Sports Commentary: Discussing championships, trophies, and tournament rewards.

'And the first prize goes to... John Smith!' the announcer shouted into the microphone.

In educational settings, 'prize' is a common part of school life. Schools often have 'Prize Giving' days or 'Awards Assemblies' where students are given prizes for academic excellence, sportsmanship, or perfect attendance. Teachers might use small prizes like stickers or extra recess time to motivate younger students. In the business world, companies use prizes to drive sales or employee performance. You might see advertisements for 'prize draws' where customers can win a car by purchasing a product. Marketing campaigns often use phrases like 'no purchase necessary to enter the prize draw' in their fine print. In everyday conversation, people use the word when talking about their hobbies. A gardener might talk about their 'prize-winning roses,' or a fisherman might describe a particularly large catch as a 'prize fish.' Even in literature and film, the quest for a 'prize'—whether it's a literal treasure or a symbolic victory—is a central theme that drives the plot forward.

The local fair featured a prize for the heaviest pumpkin grown in the county.

Finally, the word appears in legal and formal documents, particularly regarding competitions and lotteries. Terms and conditions will specify the 'prize value,' 'prize eligibility,' and 'prize distribution' methods. In maritime history, a 'prize' referred to a ship captured at sea during wartime, a usage you might encounter in historical novels or museums. This wide range of contexts—from the playground to the courtroom, from the television studio to the laboratory—proves that 'prize' is a fundamental word for describing the rewards of human activity. By paying attention to these different settings, you can see how the word changes slightly in tone but always retains its core meaning of a valuable reward.

The jackpot prize has reached over ten million dollars this week.

Game Shows: 'Spin the wheel to see what prize you've won today!'

He won a consolation prize of a twenty-dollar gift card.

The winner of the prize was announced on live television.

One of the most frequent errors English learners make is confusing 'prize' with 'price.' While they are phonetically similar, their meanings are entirely different and using one in place of the other can lead to significant confusion. 'Price' (with an 's' sound) refers to the cost of an item—the amount of money you must pay to buy something. 'Prize' (with a 'z' sound) is the reward you receive for winning. For example, saying 'The price for winning the race was a trophy' is incorrect; it should be 'The prize for winning...' Conversely, 'What is the prize of this shirt?' is wrong; it should be 'What is the price of this shirt?' To master this, focus on the 'z' sound in 'prize' and associate it with the 'z' in 'amazing' or 'blaze' of glory.

Prize vs. Price: Prize = Reward (🏆). Price = Cost ($).
Prize vs. Award: 'Award' is often more formal; 'Prize' is common in games and contests.

Incorrect: He paid a high prize for the car. Correct: He paid a high price for the car.

Another common mistake involves the misuse of prepositions. Learners often say 'a prize of the competition' instead of 'a prize in the competition' or 'a prize for the winner.' The preposition 'for' is the most versatile, indicating the reason or the recipient. For example, 'a prize for bravery' or 'a prize for the best student.' Using 'of' is usually reserved for the value: 'a prize of $1,000.' Additionally, some learners confuse 'prize' with 'reward.' While they are synonyms, 'reward' is often used for returning a lost item or for good behavior, whereas 'prize' is specifically for winning a competition. You wouldn't usually say 'I got a prize for finding the lost dog'; you would say 'I got a reward.'

Incorrect: She won the first price in the lottery. Correct: She won the first prize in the lottery.

Finally, watch out for the pluralization. 'Prize' is a regular noun, so the plural is 'prizes.' Some learners mistakenly use 'prizzes' or leave it singular when it should be plural. Also, when using 'prize' as a verb, ensure the subject-verb agreement is correct. 'He prizes his collection' is correct, not 'He prize his collection.' In the context of the idiom 'eyes on the prize,' make sure to use 'the' prize, as it refers to a specific, singular goal. Avoiding these common pitfalls will make your English sound much more natural and precise. Practice saying 'prize' with a strong 'z' sound to build muscle memory and distinguish it from its 's' sounding counterparts.

Incorrect: There were many prize for the children. Correct: There were many prizes for the children.

Spelling Tip: Think of 'Prize' and 'Size'—both have a 'Z' and relate to something you can measure or win.

The prize was a gold medal, not a cash payment.

They are competing for the ultimate prize in world sports.

While 'prize' is a very common and versatile word, English offers several alternatives that can add precision to your writing and speaking depending on the context. 'Award' is perhaps the closest synonym, but it often carries a more formal or official connotation. You might win a 'prize' at a carnival, but you receive an 'award' from a professional body or a university. 'Reward' is another similar term, but it is typically linked to an action or behavior. You get a reward for hard work or for helping someone, whereas a prize is almost always linked to a competition. 'Trophy' refers specifically to a physical object, usually made of metal or plastic, given as a prize. You win the prize, and the trophy is the physical representation of that prize.

Award vs. Prize: Award: Formal, institutional. Prize: Competitive, can be informal.
Medal vs. Prize: Medal: A specific type of prize worn around the neck (Gold, Silver, Bronze).

The Olympic prize is often a gold medal and international fame.

In the world of gambling or lotteries, 'jackpot' is a specific type of prize that refers to a large, accumulated sum of money. 'Pot' or 'winnings' are also used in these contexts. In a professional or academic setting, you might use 'accolade' or 'honor.' These words suggest a high degree of respect and recognition. For example, 'Winning the Nobel Prize is the highest accolade a scientist can receive.' If the prize is specifically money given for a purpose, like studying, it is called a 'scholarship' or a 'grant.' If it's a small gift given to everyone who took part, it's a 'favor' or a 'souvenir.' Using these specific terms can help you avoid repeating 'prize' too often and make your descriptions more vivid.

The prize for the raffle was a luxury hamper filled with gourmet food.

When 'prize' is used as a verb, synonyms include 'value,' 'treasure,' 'cherish,' and 'esteem.' If you 'prize' your freedom, you treasure it. These words often carry more emotional weight than the verb 'prize.' In summary, choosing the right synonym depends on the formality of the situation and the physical nature of the reward. By expanding your vocabulary to include these alternatives, you can express the nuances of achievement and value more effectively. Whether it's a 'booby prize' for the loser or a 'crown' for the victor, the language of prizes is rich and varied, reflecting our deep-seated desire for recognition and reward.

The winner was presented with a silver prize cup.

Other Terms: Bonus, premium, purse (in boxing), and stakes.

The scientist received many honors and prizes during her career.

He walked away with the grand prize of a new house.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

The words 'prize' and 'price' actually come from the same root word. They split into two different meanings in English during the 16th century.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /praɪz/

US /praɪz/

Single syllable word; the stress is on the entire word.

Rhymes With

Rise Wise Size Lies Ties Guise Surprise Exercise

Common Errors

Pronouncing the 'z' as an 's' (making it sound like 'price').
Vowel being too short.
Adding an extra vowel at the end.
Swallowing the 'p' sound.
Confusing with 'pries'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 1/5

The word is short and common in basic texts.

Writing 2/5

Easy to spell but often confused with 'price'.

Speaking 2/5

Requires clear 'z' sound pronunciation.

Listening 2/5

Can be confused with 'price' in fast speech.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

Win Game Good Give Gift

Learn Next

Award Reward Competition Trophy Victory

Advanced

Accolade Laureate Meritocracy Incentive Honorarium

Grammar to Know

Countable Nouns

I won two prizes.

Passive Voice for Awards

The prize was given to Mary.

Compound Adjectives

She is a prize-winning scientist.

Verb Tenses with Win

He had won the prize before I arrived.

Prepositional Usage

The prize for the best cake.

Examples by Level

I won a prize in the game.

J'ai gagné un prix au jeu.

Simple past tense of 'win'.

The first prize is a new book.

Le premier prix est un nouveau livre.

Use of 'is' to define the prize.

Do you want to win a prize?

Veux-tu gagner un prix ?

Question form with 'do'.

She has a small prize for you.

Elle a un petit prix pour toi.

Possessive 'has'.

The prize is very big.

Le prix est très grand.

Adjective 'big' modifying the noun.

We got a prize for our team.

Nous avons eu un prix pour notre équipe.

Preposition 'for' indicating the recipient.

There is a prize in the box.

Il y a un prix dans la boîte.

'There is' structure.

Look at my gold prize!

Regarde mon prix en or !

Imperative 'Look'.

He won the first prize in the school art contest.

Il a remporté le premier prix au concours d'art de l'école.

Definite article 'the' before 'first prize'.

The second prize was a gift card for twenty dollars.

Le deuxième prix était une carte-cadeau de vingt dollars.

Past tense 'was'.

They are giving prizes to all the winners today.

Ils donnent des prix à tous les gagnants aujourd'hui.

Present continuous tense.

I hope I win a prize in the raffle.

J'espère gagner un prix à la tombola.

Verb 'hope' followed by a clause.

The prize for the best photo is a camera.

Le prix pour la meilleure photo est un appareil photo.

Superlative 'best' modifying the category.

She was proud to show her prize to her parents.

Elle était fière de montrer son prix à ses parents.

Infinitive 'to show' after 'proud'.

What is the grand prize for this competition?

Quel est le grand prix pour cette compétition ?

Interrogative 'What'.

You can win many prizes if you play well.

Tu peux gagner de nombreux prix si tu joues bien.

Conditional 'if' clause.

The Nobel Prize is awarded every year in several categories.

Le prix Nobel est décerné chaque année dans plusieurs catégories.

Passive voice 'is awarded'.

She worked hard because she wanted to win the top prize.

Elle a travaillé dur parce qu'elle voulait gagner le premier prix.

Conjunction 'because' connecting two clauses.

Many companies offer prizes as a way to attract new customers.

De nombreuses entreprises proposent des prix pour attirer de nouveaux clients.

'As a way to' expressing purpose.

He was delighted to receive a prize for his long years of service.

Il était ravi de recevoir un prix pour ses longues années de service.

Adjective 'delighted' followed by an infinitive.

The prize money helped him pay for his university tuition.

L'argent du prix l'a aidé à payer ses frais de scolarité universitaire.

Compound noun 'prize money'.

Is the prize worth all the effort you are putting in?

Le prix vaut-il tous les efforts que vous fournissez ?

Adjective 'worth' followed by a noun phrase.

They didn't win the main prize, but they got a consolation prize.

Ils n'ont pas gagné le prix principal, mais ils ont reçu un prix de consolation.

Contrastive conjunction 'but'.

The competition for the prize was very intense this year.

La compétition pour le prix était très intense cette année.

Noun 'competition' followed by 'for the prize'.

Winning the prestigious prize significantly boosted her professional reputation.

Remporter ce prix prestigieux a considérablement renforcé sa réputation professionnelle.

Gerund phrase 'Winning the prestigious prize' as subject.

The prize was established to encourage innovation in the field of medicine.

Le prix a été créé pour encourager l'innovation dans le domaine de la médecine.

Passive infinitive 'to be established'.

He prizes his collection of rare books above all his other belongings.

Il chérit sa collection de livres rares par-dessus tous ses autres biens.

Verb 'prizes' meaning 'values highly'.

Despite the high prize, few people were willing to enter the dangerous contest.

Malgré le prix élevé, peu de gens étaient prêts à participer au concours dangereux.

Preposition 'Despite' followed by a noun phrase.

The winner of the prize will be announced live on national television.

Le gagnant du prix sera annoncé en direct à la télévision nationale.

Future passive voice 'will be announced'.

She has her eyes on the prize and refuses to be distracted by minor setbacks.

Elle a les yeux fixés sur l'objectif et refuse d'être distraite par des revers mineurs.

Idiom 'eyes on the prize'.

The prize-winning architect designed the new city hall.

L'architecte lauréat a conçu le nouvel hôtel de ville.

Compound adjective 'prize-winning'.

There is a substantial cash prize for anyone who can solve the puzzle.

Il y a un prix en espèces substantiel pour quiconque peut résoudre l'énigme.

Adjective 'substantial' used for emphasis.

The Nobel Peace Prize remains a subject of intense debate and controversy.

Le prix Nobel de la paix reste un sujet de débats et de controverses intenses.

Linking verb 'remains' with a noun phrase complement.

In many cultures, wisdom is a more highly prized attribute than wealth.

Dans de nombreuses cultures, la sagesse est un attribut bien plus précieux que la richesse.

Adverbially modified participle 'highly prized'.

The historical document was considered a prize catch by the national archives.

Le document historique était considéré comme une prise de choix par les archives nationales.

Metaphorical use of 'prize catch'.

The sheer prestige of the prize often outweighs its monetary value.

Le prestige pur du prix l'emporte souvent sur sa valeur monétaire.

Verb 'outweighs' comparing two abstract concepts.

The committee's decision to award the prize posthumously was met with mixed reviews.

La décision du comité de décerner le prix à titre posthume a été accueillie par des critiques mitigées.

Adverb 'posthumously' modifying the infinitive.

He had to prize the lid off the ancient chest with a heavy iron bar.

Il a dû forcer le couvercle du vieux coffre avec une lourde barre de fer.

Verb 'prize' meaning 'to force open' (often spelled 'pry' in US English).

The company's prize asset is its innovative research and development department.

L'atout majeur de l'entreprise est son département de recherche et développement innovant.

Attributive use of 'prize' to mean 'most valuable'.

Winning the prize was the culmination of a lifelong dedication to her craft.

Remporter le prix a été l'aboutissement d'un dévouement de toute une vie à son métier.

Noun 'culmination' used to express the peak of achievement.

The philosophical implications of awarding a prize for 'best' art are frequently scrutinized.

Les implications philosophiques de l'attribution d'un prix pour le « meilleur » art sont fréquemment scrutées.

Gerund 'awarding' as part of a prepositional phrase.

The prize, though ostensibly meritocratic, was often influenced by political affiliations.

Le prix, bien qu'ostensiblement méritocratique, était souvent influencé par des affiliations politiques.

Parenthetical adverb 'ostensibly'.

She managed to prize the secret from him after hours of careful interrogation.

Elle a réussi à lui arracher le secret après des heures d'interrogatoire minutieux.

Figurative use of 'prize' meaning 'to extract with difficulty'.

The societal obsession with prizes can sometimes overshadow the intrinsic value of the work itself.

L'obsession de la société pour les prix peut parfois éclipser la valeur intrinsèque de l'œuvre elle-même.

Verb 'overshadow' used to describe the loss of focus.

The prize was a double-edged sword, bringing both fame and unwanted scrutiny.

Le prix était une arme à double tranchant, apportant à la fois la gloire et un examen indésirable.

Metaphor 'double-edged sword'.

To prize open the doors of perception, one must be willing to challenge every preconceived notion.

Pour forcer les portes de la perception, il faut être prêt à remettre en question chaque notion préconçue.

Metaphorical use of 'prize open'.

The prize-winning essay was lauded for its incisive analysis and stylistic elegance.

L'essai primé a été loué pour son analyse incisive et son élégance stylistique.

Passive verb 'was lauded'.

He viewed the governorship not as a service, but as a prize to be won and exploited.

Il considérait le poste de gouverneur non pas comme un service, mais comme un prix à gagner et à exploiter.

Correlative conjunction 'not... but...'.

Synonyms

award reward trophy medal jackpot premium

Antonyms

penalty loss forfeit

Common Collocations

Win a prize

First prize

Cash prize

Grand prize

Award a prize

Prize money

Consolation prize

Prize winner

Top prize

Prestigious prize

Common Phrases

Eyes on the prize

— Stay focused on the goal.

Keep your eyes on the prize and keep working hard.

Booby prize

— A joke prize for the person who comes last.

He got a booby prize of a plastic spoon.

Prize fighter

— A professional boxer who fights for money.

The prize fighter entered the ring.

Prize possession

— Something you value very much.

This watch is my prize possession.

No prize

— Not very attractive or good (informal).

He's no prize, but he's a nice guy.

Take the prize

— To be the best or most surprising.

That excuse really takes the prize for being silly.

Prize apart

— To force two things away from each other.

He managed to prize the boards apart.

Prize open

— To force something open.

They had to prize open the window.

Prize-winning

— Having won a prize.

She is a prize-winning author.

To be prized

— To be highly valued.

Honesty is a quality to be prized.

Often Confused With

prize vs Price

Price is the cost of something ($). Prize is a reward (🏆).

prize vs Pries

Pries is the third-person singular of the verb 'pry' (to look closely or force open).

prize vs Pride

Pride is a feeling of satisfaction in one's own achievements.

Idioms & Expressions

"Keep one's eyes on the prize"

— To remain focused on a final goal despite difficulties.

If you want to graduate with honors, keep your eyes on the prize.

Informal

"No great prize"

— Something or someone that is not very impressive.

The hotel was no great prize, but it was cheap.

Informal

"The prize at the end of the tunnel"

— A reward that comes after a long period of struggle.

Retirement is the prize at the end of the tunnel for many workers.

Informal

"Prize something out of someone"

— To struggle to get information or an object from someone.

I had to prize the truth out of him.

Neutral

"A prize idiot"

— A person who has done something very stupid.

He felt like a prize idiot after forgetting his keys.

Informal/Slang

"Walk away with the prize"

— To win something easily or unexpectedly.

The underdog walked away with the prize.

Neutral

"Ultimate prize"

— The best possible reward in a specific context.

World peace is the ultimate prize for diplomacy.

Formal

"Prize catch"

— A very valuable or desirable person or thing to have.

The new CEO was considered a prize catch for the firm.

Neutral

"Give the prize to"

— To acknowledge someone as the best in a situation.

I'd give the prize to her for the best costume.

Neutral

"Eyes off the prize"

— To lose focus on one's main goal.

Don't take your eyes off the prize now that you're so close.

Informal

Easily Confused

prize vs Award

Both mean a reward for winning.

Awards are usually more formal and given by institutions. Prizes are common in games and contests.

He won a prize at the fair, but received an award from the university.

prize vs Reward

Both involve getting something good for an action.

A reward is for effort or behavior (e.g., finding a dog). A prize is for winning a competition.

The reward for my hard work was a promotion.

prize vs Bounty

Both can mean a reward.

Bounty is often a reward for capturing a criminal or a government grant.

The government offered a bounty for the capture of the pirate.

prize vs Honorarium

Both involve receiving something for an achievement.

An honorarium is a payment for a professional service given for free, not necessarily for winning.

The guest speaker received a small honorarium.

prize vs Premium

Both can be incentives.

A premium is often an extra payment or a prize given as a marketing incentive.

You get a free toy as a premium with this cereal.

Sentence Patterns

I won a [adjective] prize.

I won a small prize.

The [ordinal] prize is a [noun].

The first prize is a bike.

He was awarded a prize for [gerund].

He was awarded a prize for singing.

Winning the prize allowed [object] to [verb].

Winning the prize allowed her to travel.

The prize is widely regarded as [adjective].

The prize is widely regarded as prestigious.

To prize [noun] above [noun] is a [adjective] choice.

To prize fame above integrity is a dangerous choice.

Any

Keep your eyes on the prize.

Any

A prize-winning [noun].

A prize-winning novel.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Very common in both spoken and written English.

Common Mistakes

Using 'price' instead of 'prize'. → She won the first prize.
Price is for money paid; prize is for rewards won.
Saying 'He prize the medal'. → He prizes the medal.
As a verb, it needs an 's' for third-person singular subjects.
Using 'of' for the competition name. → A prize in the competition.
Usually we use 'in' for the event or 'for' for the achievement.
Forgetting the 'the' in 'eyes on the prize'. → Keep your eyes on the prize.
The idiom specifically uses the definite article.
Spelling it 'prizze'. → Prize.
The word only has one 'z'.

Tips

The Z Rule

Always remember that 'Prize' has a 'Z' because it makes you feel 'Zippy' and 'AmaZing' when you win!

Verb Pairing

The most common verb to use with prize is 'win'. Practice saying 'I want to win the prize' to get used to the combination.

Clear Z

Make sure your throat vibrates when you say the end of 'prize'. If it doesn't, you are saying 'price'.

Capitalization

Only capitalize 'prize' when it is part of a specific name like 'The Pulitzer Prize'. Otherwise, keep it lowercase.

Synonym Choice

Use 'award' for formal ceremonies and 'prize' for games or sports to sound more natural.

Cultural Awareness

Understand that in some places, a 'prize' might be a certificate rather than money. Always check the context.

Focus

Use 'eyes on the prize' in your next English conversation about goals to sound like an advanced speaker.

Context Clues

If you hear 'prize' near words like 'contest' or 'winner', you know for sure it's not 'price'.

Ends in E

Don't forget the silent 'e' at the end of 'prize'. It's what makes the 'i' sound long.

Adjective Form

Use 'prize-winning' as a hyphenated adjective before a noun, like 'a prize-winning author'.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Remember: A Prize has a Z because it is AmaZing! A Price has a C because it Costs Cash.

Visual Association

Imagine a giant gold trophy shaped like the letter Z.

Word Web

Winner Trophy Competition Medal Gold Success Reward Award

Challenge

Try to use the word 'prize' in three different sentences: once as a noun for a game, once as a verb (to value), and once as an adjective.

Word Origin

From Old French 'pris', which means 'price' or 'value'. It entered Middle English as 'prise'.

Original meaning: Originally referred to the value or worth of something, similar to 'price'.

Indo-European (Latin -> French -> English).

Cultural Context

Be careful when using 'booby prize' as it can be seen as mocking, though usually it is lighthearted.

Common in school 'Prize Giving' days and TV game shows.

The Nobel Prize The Pulitzer Prize The Man Booker Prize

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Sports

Win the gold prize
The tournament prize
A trophy prize
Prize money for athletes

School

Academic prize
Prize giving day
A prize for attendance
Winning a book prize

Gambling/Lottery

The jackpot prize
Claim your prize
A cash prize
Prize draw

Professional

Nobel Prize
Prestigious award
Receive a prize
Prize-winning research

Daily Life

A prize possession
Eyes on the prize
A small prize
No great prize

Conversation Starters

"Have you ever won a prize in a competition?"

"What is the best prize you have ever received?"

"If you could win any prize in the world, what would it be?"

"Do you think prizes are good for motivating children in school?"

"What kind of prize would you offer for a local community contest?"

Journal Prompts

Describe a time you worked very hard to win a prize. How did you feel?

If you were to create a new prize for a special skill, what would it be and why?

Write about a 'prize possession' you have. Why is it so valuable to you?

Do you think some prizes, like the Nobel Prize, are too political? Explain your view.

Reflect on the idiom 'eyes on the prize.' What is your current 'prize' in life?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

The main difference is meaning and sound. 'Price' (with an 's' sound) is the money you pay for something. 'Prize' (with a 'z' sound) is the reward you get for winning a contest. For example, you pay a price for a ticket to enter a raffle, and you might win a prize.

Yes, 'prize' can be a verb. It means to value something very highly. For example, 'I prize our friendship.' It can also mean to force something open, though this is often spelled 'pry' in American English.

Yes, 'prize' is a countable noun. You can say 'one prize' or 'many prizes.' For example, 'The winner received three different prizes.'

This is an idiom that means you should stay focused on your main goal and not let other things distract you. It is often used to encourage someone who is working toward a difficult objective.

Both can be correct depending on the sentence. 'He won first prize' is common in casual speech. 'He won the first prize in the contest' is more specific and formal.

A 'booby prize' is a funny or cheap prize given to the person who finishes last in a competition. It is meant as a joke and not as a serious reward.

Yes, metaphorically. If you say someone is 'a real prize,' you usually mean they are a very valuable or wonderful person. However, if you say 'he's no prize,' it's a way of saying he isn't very special or attractive.

Prize money is a sum of money given as a reward for winning a competition, such as a golf tournament or a poker game.

It is pronounced with a long 'i' sound (like 'eye') and ends with a voiced 'z' sound. It rhymes with 'size' and 'rise'.

Yes, when you are referring to the specific award, both 'Nobel' and 'Prize' should be capitalized because it is a proper noun.