Prix vs. récompense
The French words 'prix' and 'récompense' both translate to 'prize' or 'award' in English, but they have different connotations and usage contexts.
Prix
The word 'prix' primarily means 'price' or 'cost', but it can also mean 'prize' or 'award' when used in the context of competitions or recognitions. It often emphasizes the value or esteem of the award itself.
Il a gagné le premier prix au concours de peinture.
(He won the first prize in the painting competition.)
Le prix Nobel de littérature est très prestigieux.
(The Nobel Prize in Literature is very prestigious.)
Quel est le prix de ce tableau ?
(What is the price of this painting?)
Récompense
The word 'récompense' means 'reward', and it generally conveys a sense of recognition given as motivation or acknowledgment of effort, achievement, or merit. It is often used in contexts where the reward is a result of hard work or good behavior.
Elle a reçu une récompense pour ses efforts exceptionnels au travail.
(She received an award for her outstanding efforts at work.)
Les enfants reçoivent une récompense pour avoir bien rangé leur chambre.
(The children receive a reward for tidying their room well.)
La médaille était une récompense bien méritée.
(The medal was a well-deserved reward.)
Summary
While both 'prix' and 'récompense' can refer to an award or prize, 'prix' often highlights the value or importance of an award typically in competitions or prestigious recognitions, while 'récompense' focuses more on acknowledging effort, achievement, or merit as a form of encouragement or appreciation.