Translation guide
The top prize in a competition, typically a physical medal made of or colored gold. In Japanese, it is most commonly expressed with the borrowed term 金メダル, but native terms and symbolic expressions also exist.
Referring to the actual medal awarded for first place.
The standard, most common term for a gold medal in any competition. Used in sports, academic contests, etc.
He won a gold medal at the Olympics.
I had a gold medal placed around my neck.
A slightly more descriptive phrase, literally 'medal of gold'. Less common than 金メダル but still natural.
A gold medal is presented to the winner.
In some contexts, especially in older or more formal writing, the kanji 金 alone can be used to refer to a gold medal, but this is rare and ambiguous.
He took the gold.
Using 'gold medal' figuratively to mean the top position or highest achievement.
The most direct way to say 'win a gold medal' or 'take the gold'. Can be used literally or figuratively.
She won the gold medal in the speech contest.
Means 'to win a championship' or 'to take first place'. Often used when the prize is a gold medal, but focuses on the victory itself.
Literally 'become first place'. A straightforward way to express achieving the top rank, often implying a gold medal.
He came in first in the marathon.
Referring to the person who won the gold medal.
He won the world championship (and got the gold medal).
The person who won the gold medal was being interviewed.