Rewards: meaning, definitions and examples

General terms for anything given in return for good performance or behavior. Can be used in various settings, suitable for long-term goals.

• The company offers rewards for employees who achieve their sales targets.
• Parents often give rewards to children for good behavior.

A reward given for winning a competition or contest. Often tangible and can be monetary or an object.

• He won the first prize in the science fair.
• The raffle offered a trip to Paris as the grand prize.

An official recognition given for a special achievement, often in a formal setting such as an awards ceremony.

• She received an award for her outstanding research.
• The film won several awards at the international festival.

Something that motivates or encourages a person to do something, usually used in contexts involving work or productivity.

• The management introduced financial incentives to boost productivity.
• Offering incentives can improve employee morale.

Used when referring to benefits or compensations one receives as a result of certain actions or behaviors, often related to loyalty programs or achievements.

• The company offers rewards for employees who meet their sales targets.
• She received rewards from the store for her regular purchases.

Used when referring to something voluntarily given without expecting any return, usually to show appreciation or affection.

• She gave him a gift for his birthday.
• The employees received gifts during the annual company party.

Used when referring to an additional payment or benefit given on top of what is usually received, often as a result of good performance or special occasions.

• He received a year-end bonus for his outstanding performance.
• The company gives holiday bonuses to all its employees.

Used when referring to additional benefits or privileges that come with a particular job or position, often informal or non-monetary.

• One of the perks of working here is the free gym membership.
• The job comes with many perks, including flexible working hours.

Use when someone receives something because of good behavior, achievements, or hard work. It often implies a positive reinforcement.

• The school rewards students who have perfect attendance.
• The company rewards its best employee with a bonus.

Use when expressing approval or admiration for someone’s achievements or qualities. Often used verbally or in writing, and does not always involve a material reward.

• She praised her team for their hard work.
• The teacher praised the students for their high scores on the exam.

Use mainly in formal or literary contexts to denote giving something, often money, as a reward or to make amends for a loss or effort. It is less commonly used in everyday language.

• The author was recompensed for his years of research.
• They seek recompense for the damages caused by the flood.

Use when providing something, usually money, to make up for a loss, damage, or effort. It implies making amends or balancing a situation.

• The company had to compensate the workers for the extra hours they worked.
• After the flight was canceled, the airline promised to compensate the passengers.