reward

Something good given to someone because they did something helpful or worked hard.

• You deserve a reward for your hard work.
• The dog received a treat as a reward.
• What rewards do the students get?

How to use it: a reward for something (This book is a reward for your effort.)

Similar words: prize

Opposites: punishment

Common phrases: reward for something, as a reward, earn a reward

Money or a prize promised to whoever finds something, catches someone, or provides useful information.

• They offered a reward for the lost dog.
• Police announced a reward for information about the robbery.
• Did anyone claim the reward?

How to use it: a reward for something (There is a reward for the return of the painting.)

Similar words: bounty

Common phrases: offer a reward, cash reward, reward for information

A result of what someone does, usually good but sometimes bad or disappointing.

• Friendship was the reward for his kindness.
• Was rejection her only reward for years of loyalty?
• Helping others can be its own reward.

How to use it: a reward for something (A peaceful garden was our reward for months of work.)

Similar words: return, consequence

Common phrases: reward for something, bitter reward, own reward

To give someone something good because of what they have done.

• We reward good work.
• She rewarded the dog with a treat.
• How do you reward your staff?

How to use it: reward someone for something (They rewarded him for his honesty.); reward someone with something (She rewarded the children with extra playtime.)

Similar words: recompense

Opposites: punish

Common phrases: reward someone, reward good behavior, reward someone for, reward effort

To provide something good in return for work, effort, or service.

• Success rewarded their patience.
• The medal rewards years of dedicated service.
• Their hard work was rewarded by an excellent harvest.

Similar words: recompense, repay

Common phrases: reward effort, reward patience, reward someone’s work