Translation guide
In Japanese, 'first prize' is most commonly expressed as 一等賞 (ittoushou) or 一等 (ittou). The choice depends on context, such as contests, lotteries, or competitions.
The top award in a contest, competition, or lottery.
The most common and natural way to say 'first prize' in everyday contexts, such as school competitions, local events, or raffles.
A shorter form of 一等賞, often used in formal or written contexts, or when the prize is implied. Can also mean 'first class' or 'first rank'.
Means 'victory' or 'championship'. Used when 'first prize' implies winning a tournament or competition, not just a prize draw.
When the prize is a specific item or title, such as in a game show or award ceremony.
Literally 'first place'. Common in rankings, contests, or when the prize is a position rather than a physical object.
歌唱コンテストで第1位になった。
I got first prize (first place) in the singing contest.
一等賞 explicitly includes the word 'prize' (賞), so it's clearer when referring to a tangible award. 一等 can be ambiguous, as it also means 'first class' (e.g., 一等車, first-class train car). Use 一等賞 for clarity in most cases.
The phrase '最初の賞' (saisho no shou) literally means 'first prize' in the sense of 'the initial prize', not the top prize. Do not use this to mean 'first prize'.
彼女は科学フェアで一等賞を取った。
She won first prize in the science fair.
一等賞はハワイ旅行です。
The first prize is a trip to Hawaii.
彼は絵画コンテストで一等賞を取った。
He won first prize in the painting contest.
I won first prize in the lottery.
彼女はテニス大会で優勝した。
She won first prize (the championship) in the tennis tournament.
Means 'grand prize' or 'top excellence award'. Used in formal competitions like film festivals or academic awards.
その映画は最優秀賞を受賞した。
The film won first prize (the top award).