What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
medal
Example
She won a gold medal in the Olympics. [medal: noun]
Example
The general was awarded a medal for his bravery. [medal: noun]
prize
Example
He won first prize in the science fair. [prize: noun]
Example
The company offered a prize for the best salesperson of the year. [prize: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Prize is more commonly used than medal in everyday language. Prize is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while medal is less common and is often associated with sports or military service.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between medal and prize?
Both medal and prize can be used in formal and informal contexts, but medal may be more formal due to its association with official recognition and commemoration.
