Translation and Meaning of: 賞 - shou

The Japanese word 賞[しょう] is a term that piques curiosity both for its meaning and its cultural use in Japan. If you are learning Japanese or are simply interested in the language, understanding this word can open doors to a better grasp of the social and linguistic aspects of the country. In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and contexts in which 賞 is used, along with practical tips for memorizing it.

賞 is often associated with awards and recognitions, but its application goes beyond that. Whether in competitions, cultural events, or even in everyday life, this word carries significant weight in Japanese communication. Let's dive into the details that make 賞 such a relevant and versatile expression.

Meaning and usage of 賞[しょう]

In Japanese, 賞[しょう] means "prize" or "reward," typically awarded in competitions, contests, or special events. It appears in various contexts, from academic awards to film festivals. For example, the famous Nobel Prize is called ノーベル賞[のーべるしょう] in Japanese, illustrating how the word is adapted for international concepts.

Furthermore, 賞 is used in expressions such as 受賞[じゅしょう] (to receive an award) and 賞金[しょうきん] (prize money). Its presence in event and ceremony titles reinforces its importance in Japanese culture, where public recognition is highly valued. Whether in animes, dramas, or news, it is common to find this word in contexts that celebrate achievements and merits.

Origin and writing of the kanji 賞

The kanji 賞 is composed of two main elements: the radical 貝[かい], which represents "shell" (formerly associated with money), and 尚[しょう], which conveys the sense of "to value" or "to respect." Together, these components form the idea of something valuable that is awarded as recognition. This construction effectively reflects the meaning of the word, linking it to notions of merit and honor.

Interestingly, 賞 is not an isolated kanji—it appears in other words related to rewards and evaluations. For example, 賞与[しょうよ] means "bonus" or "gratification," while 賞味期限[しょうみきげん] refers to the "expiration date" of food (although here the meaning is more technical). This versatility makes the kanji an interesting piece of the Japanese vocabulary.

Tips for memorizing and using 賞[しょう]

An effective way to memorize 賞 is to associate it with concrete situations. Think of award ceremonies, like the Oscars or sports competitions—whenever you see the word in Japanese, remember these contexts. Another tip is to practice with flashcards, including sentences like 「彼は文学賞を受賞した」[かれはぶんがくしょうをじゅしょうした] (He received the literary award).

For those studying Japanese, it's worth noting that 賞 is frequently used in news and TV programs. Paying attention to these uses helps to internalize the word naturally. Additionally, jotting down real examples in a notebook or an app like Anki can reinforce learning, especially if you include audio to practice correct pronunciation.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 賞賜 (shōshi) - Granting, awarding of prizes.
• 褒美 (hōbi) - Reward, a prize given as a form of recognition.
• 報奨 (hōshō) - Reward, financial incentive or prize for achievements.
• 賞品 (shōhin) - Award, item received as recognition in competitions.
• 優勝 (yūshō) - Victory, winning a championship.
• 勝利 (shōri) - Victory, success in a competition or battle.
• 優等賞 (yūtōshō) - Excellence award, recognition for superior performance.
• 賞状 (shōjō) - Award certificate, a document that recognizes achievements.
• 賞金 (shōkin) - Cash prize, amount received as recognition.
• 賞罰 (shōbatsu) - Reward and punishment, recognition and consequences of actions.
• 表彰 (hyōshō) - Tribute, ceremony of public recognition.
• 褒章 (hōshō) - Medal of honor, decoration for exceptional services.
• 賞与 (shōyo) - Bonus, distribution of financial rewards in companies.
• 賞典 (shōten) - Award or honor from an institution, official recognition.
• 賞状書 (shōjōsho) - Original document of the award, where the certification is written.
• 賞状授与 (shōjō juyo) - Award certificate delivery, award presentation ceremony.
• 賞状贈呈 (shōjō zōtei) - Presentation of an award certificate, formal delivery.
• 賞状記念 (shōjō kinen) - Celebration of awards, celebration of achievements.
• 賞状額 (shōjōgaku) - Nominal value of a cash prize, the amount of the prize.
• 賞状作成 (shōjō sakusei) - Creation of award certificates, the preparation process.
• 賞状発行 (shōjō hakkō) - Issuance of award certificates, formalization of recognition.
• 賞状受領 (shōjō juryō) - Receipt of an award certificate, an act of accepting recognition.
• 賞状返送 (shōjō hensō) - Return of a prize certificate, the sending back.
• 賞状保存 (shōjō hozon) - Filing of award certificates, the act of preserving honors.
• 賞状展示 (shōjō tenji) - Display of award certificates, public presentation of honors.

賞

Romaji: shou
Kana: しょう
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n3

Translation / Meaning: prize; reward

Meaning in English: prize;award

Definition: To praise remarkable achievements and accomplishments.

Example Sentences - (賞) shou

See below some example sentences:

この賞品を進呈します。

Kono shōhin o shintei shimasu

I present this award.

This award will be presented.

• この - this
• 賞品 - award
• を - direct object particle
• 進呈 - present, offer
• します - verb "to do" in polite form

このイベントの賞品はとても魅力的です。

Kono ibento no shōhin wa totemo miryokuteki desu

The prizes of this event are very attractive.

• この - demonstrative pronoun
• イベント - event
• の - Possession particle
• 賞品 - award
• は - Topic particle
• とても - adverb of intensity (very)
• 魅力的 - adjective (attractive)
• です - verb ser/estar (polite)

私は入賞したいです。

Watashi wa nyūshō shitai desu

I want to win a prize.

• 私 (watashi) - personal pronoun that means "I"
• は (wa) - topic particle that indicates the subject of the sentence
• 入賞 (nyuushou) - noun meaning "to win a prize" or "to be rewarded"
• したい (shitai) - form of the verb "querer" in the present tense, indicating the desire to win a prize
• です (desu) - linking verb that indicates formality and courtesy in Japanese communication