What is prize? Pronunciation and usage in English

prize means . Learn how to pronounce and use prize through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of prize

prizenoun

/prʌɪz/
Definition & pronunciation of prize

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "prize" in English. It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown:

The most common and generally accepted pronunciation is:

  • /praɪz/ (rhymes with "price")

Let's break that down further:

  • "p": Pronounced like the "p" in "pen" - a quick, short sound.
  • "ri": This is the trickiest part. It’s a dipthong – meaning it's a gliding vowel sound. It sounds like the "i" in "ride" or "high." Imagine a very short, quick shift from an "i" sound to an "a" sound. Don't say "ree."
  • "z": Pronounced as a "z" like in "zebra."

Here's a breakdown of what not to do:

  • Don't say "prize" like "priss" (with the "ss" sound) This is a very common mistake.
  • Don't over-emphasize the "i": Keep it quick and smooth with that dipthong sound.

Resources to help you hear it:

  • Google Search: Search for "how to pronounce prize" on Google and click the speaker icon.
  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/prize/ - This website has native speakers pronounce the word.
  • YouTube: Search YouTube for "how to pronounce prize" – you'll find many helpful videos.

To help me give you even more targeted advice, would you like me to:

  • Tell you the phonetic transcription of the word? (This is the technical way of writing sounds, but more advanced)

Usage and examples with the word prize in English

Let's break down how to use the word "prize" in English. It has a few different meanings and uses!

1. A Reward for Winning (Most Common)

  • Definition: This is the most familiar meaning – something you receive for being the best in a competition or game.
  • Examples:
    • "She won the first prize in the spelling bee."
    • "He received a prize for his outstanding performance."
    • "The winning team received a trophy and a cash prize."
    • "The book is a prize for reading over 100 books this year."

2. Something Valuable or Important (Often Figurative)

  • Definition: "Prize" can also refer to something that is highly valued, desirable, or important – even if you didn’t win it. It's often used with the word "a" before it.
  • Examples:
    • "Peace is a great prize." (It’s a valuable and worthwhile goal.)
    • “Good health is a prize worth fighting for.”
    • "The sense of accomplishment was a welcome prize." (Feeling satisfied after completing a task.)
    • "He considered knowledge a great prize."

3. A Captive (Historical)

  • Definition: Historically, "prize" referred to a captive taken in battle, especially a soldier or a woman. This usage is very rare today.
  • Example: “During the war, prisoners of war were treated as prizes.” (You'll almost never hear this used in normal conversation.)

4. "Prize Money"

  • Definition: Specifically refers to the money awarded to the winner(s) of a competition.
  • Example: "The marathon runners competed for the prize money."

Here's a table summarizing the uses:

Usage Definition Example
Winning Reward Something received for winning “She won the blue ribbon – a lovely prize!”
Valuable Item Something highly desirable “A stable job is a valuable prize.”
Prize Money Money awarded to the winner "The soccer team received prize money."

Tips for Using "Prize" Correctly:

  • "A prize" is usually correct when referring to something valuable or desired.
  • Avoid using “prize” in a casual context when you simply mean "reward." Use words like "reward," "winning," or “medal” instead.

Could you tell me:

  • What specifically are you trying to do with the word “prize”? (e.g., write a sentence, understand a particular context, etc.) Knowing this will help me give you an even more targeted explanation.

Synonyms for the word prize

Practice with vocabulary prize

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The Nobel Peace ______ is awarded annually for outstanding contributions to humanity.
  2. Her diligent research earned her several academic ______ throughout her university career.
  3. Achieving true work-life balance remains a highly coveted ______ for professionals in demanding industries.
  4. The company offered a substantial financial ______ to the team that exceeded their quarterly sales targets by a significant margin.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which of the following can be considered a 'prize' in a professional or academic context? A) A significant cash award for winning a research competition B) The first-place trophy in an inter-departmental innovation challenge C) A penalty for submitting a report late D) A scholarship awarded for academic excellence E) The top recognition for exceptional service

  2. Securing the contract for the international project was considered a significant ______ for the consulting firm, opening doors to new markets. A) burden B) liability C) prize D) setback E) accomplishment

  3. The board of directors discussed different ______ to motivate employees to develop groundbreaking solutions. A) disincentives B) deterrents C) incentives D) awards E) punishments

  4. After years of dedicated effort, receiving that promotion felt like the ultimate ______. A) obstacle B) challenge C) reward D) obligation E) burden

  5. The CEO emphasized the importance of recognizing employee achievements to foster a positive work ______. A) grievance B) conflict C) environment D) dispute E) hierarchy

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Winning the prestigious international award was a defining moment in her career as an architect. Rewrite using a form of "prize":

  2. Many highly value achieving personal satisfaction in their careers. Rewrite using "prize":

  3. The team received an official commendation for their innovative design proposal. Rewrite without using "prize" or its forms:

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. prize
  2. awards
  3. prize
  4. bonus

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. A) A significant cash award for winning a research competition B) The first-place trophy in an inter-departmental innovation challenge D) A scholarship awarded for academic excellence E) The top recognition for exceptional service
  2. C) prize E) accomplishment
  3. C) incentives D) awards
  4. C) reward
  5. C) environment

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Winning the prestigious international prize was a defining moment in her career as an architect.
  2. For many, personal satisfaction in their careers is a highly valued prize.
  3. The team earned an official accolade for their innovative design proposal.

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