Recompensar vs. premiar
'Recompensar' and 'premiar' are two frequently used Spanish verbs that can be translated as 'to reward' in English. Although they share a similar basic idea, offering some form of compensation for an act or behavior, they imply different contexts and types of rewards.
Recompensar
Recompensar implies compensation or returning favor for a deed or service. It often suggests a more formal or serious context.
La empresa decidió recompensar a los empleados por su arduo trabajo.
(The company decided to compensate the employees for their hard work.)
El jefe recompensó a Ana por su dedicación al proyecto.
(The boss rewarded Ana for her dedication to the project.)
Vamos a recompensar tus esfuerzos con un aumento de salario.
(We are going to reward your efforts with a raise in salary.)
Premiar
Premiar refers to giving an award or prize as recognition for an accomplishment or outstanding performance, often in a more casual or celebratory context such as games, competitions, or occasions where exceptional achievements are acknowledged.
Voy a premiar a mi hijo con un helado por su buen comportamiento.
(I'm going to reward my son with an ice cream for his good behavior.)
La academia premió su contribución a la ciencia con un prestigioso galardón.
(The academy rewarded her contribution to science with a prestigious award.)
Los organizadores del torneo van a premiar al equipo ganador con una copa.
(The organizers of the tournament are going to reward the winning team with a cup.)
Summary
In summary, while both 'recompensar' and 'premiar' signify rewarding, 'recompensar' is used more in the context of compensation and has a sense of reciprocation for deeds or services, while 'premiar' denotes granting awards or prizes as recognition for superior performance or achievements in more casual settings like games and competitions.