award 1 of 2

Definition of awardnext

award

2 of 2

verb

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb award contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of award are accord, concede, grant, and vouchsafe. While all these words mean "to give as a favor or a right," award implies giving what is deserved or merited usually after a careful weighing of pertinent factors.

awarded the company a huge defense contract

When is accord a more appropriate choice than award?

Although the words accord and award have much in common, accord implies giving to another what is due or proper.

accorded all the honors befitting a head of state

When can concede be used instead of award?

While in some cases nearly identical to award, concede implies yielding something reluctantly in response to a rightful or compelling claim.

even her critics concede she can be charming

In what contexts can grant take the place of award?

The meanings of grant and award largely overlap; however, grant implies giving to a claimant or petitioner something that could be withheld.

granted them a new hearing

Where would vouchsafe be a reasonable alternative to award?

The words vouchsafe and award can be used in similar contexts, but vouchsafe implies granting something as a courtesy or an act of gracious condescension.

vouchsafed the secret to only a few chosen disciples

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of award
Noun
Richardson will receive the same award, but during the festival, and Wright will receive the President’s Award, again during the festival. Leo Barraclough, Variety, 23 June 2026 Winfrey was in Cannes to collect the Cannes Lionsheart award, which the festival hands to public figures who have used their platform in a positive way. Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 23 June 2026
Verb
But in the group stage of the competition, Gollner says awarding a point for a tie acknowledges the effort inherent in staving off defeat. Harmeet Kaur, CNN Money, 24 June 2026 England was awarded a free kick just outside the box in the 60th minute, which was taken by Declan Rice. Monica Alba, NBC news, 24 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for award
Recent Examples of Synonyms for award
Noun
  • My journalism awards include the 2010 Society of American Business Editors and Writers prize for commentary.
    William Pesek, Forbes.com, 19 June 2026
  • In the live finale, New Hampshire native Aubry Bracco was crowned the 50th season Sole Survivor with a $2 million prize.
    Pat Saperstein, Variety, 18 June 2026
Noun
  • Harry has fought the decision in court to reinstate security, citing safety concerns for his wife and children, the outlet shared.
    Stephanie Nolasco, FOXNews.com, 24 June 2026
  • The latest decision marks another step toward advancing one of the country’s key uranium development projects.
    Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 24 June 2026
Verb
  • What society rewards, organizations eventually adopt.
    Julian Hayes II, Forbes.com, 21 June 2026
  • The defender, a former member of MLS’ Orlando City SC and who now patrols the backline at La Liga club Villarreal in Spain, has rewarded the coach by helping shut down Paraguay a week ago and shutting out Australia here in Seattle.
    David Close, CNN Money, 20 June 2026
Verb
  • The legislation would grant the NCAA a limited antitrust exemption, allowing the governing body to enforce restrictions on athlete compensation.
    Chantz Martin, FOXNews.com, 24 June 2026
  • For days when billowy, slightly oversized pieces sound more appealing than form-fitting ones, the Merokeety Crewneck Maxi Dress balances structure with comfort, granting optimal movement without feeling swallowed in fabric.
    Julia Morlino, Travel + Leisure, 23 June 2026
Noun
  • The James Beard Awards, among the highest accolades in the American culinary industry, were announced Monday night, turning winning restaurants into must-visit destinations.
    Maureen O'Hare, CNN Money, 20 June 2026
  • His numerous accolades include 11 Primetime Emmys and five Directors Guild of America awards.
    Alicia Victoria Lozano, NBC news, 19 June 2026
Noun
  • Adams had a different verdict on the proceedings.
    Aidan McLaughlin, Vanity Fair, 18 June 2026
  • The verdict With so many resorts in the Maldives to choose from, any new ones need to overachieve in order to compete with long-time favourites.
    Deeya Sonalkar, TheWeek, 18 June 2026
Verb
  • At the San Diego event, the guide also promoted one restaurant, Kato in Los Angeles, to the two-star list and honored nine new restaurants with one-star awards, including Naides in San Francisco, one of the few Filipino cuisine restaurants in the nation with that distinction.
    Linda Zavoral, Mercury News, 25 June 2026
  • Chen and Hu started the Alan Hu Foundation to honor their son who wanted to be a psychiatrist to help others like him.
    Sharon Chin, CBS News, 25 June 2026
Noun
  • Which apparently disqualifies them from having an opinion about a movie or casting decision.
    Ian Miller OutKick, FOXNews.com, 23 June 2026
  • Aquarius January 20 – February 18 When opinions clash, lead with practical care.
    Tarot.com, Hartford Courant, 23 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Award.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/award. Accessed 25 Jun. 2026.

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