Translation guide
The English word 'reward' covers several related ideas: a prize for achievement, a return for effort, a bounty for capture, and the concept of just deserts. Japanese uses different words depending on the nuance.
A tangible or symbolic prize given to recognize success, often in competitions, academics, or formal settings.
General term for a prize or award. Used in names of specific awards (e.g., Nobel Prize).
He received the Nobel Prize.
A reward given as praise, often to children or subordinates. Can be money or a treat.
If you're a good kid, I'll give you a reward.
Specifically a prize item (goods, not cash).
Prizes were awarded to the winners.
Something good that happens as a result of hard work, kindness, or patience. Often intangible.
A return or recompense for one's actions, can be positive or negative. Often used in set phrases.
My hard work was rewarded and I passed.
Something given in return, often with a nuance of expecting compensation. Can be material or abstract.
Polite form of 褒美, often used for self-reward or treating oneself.
Remuneration or compensation for services, often monetary. More formal.
A sum of money offered for catching a criminal or providing useful information.
The idea that good or bad actions eventually bring appropriate consequences.
報い (mukui) is a broader term for consequences (good or bad), while 褒美 (hōbi) is specifically a positive reward or treat. Use 報い for karmic returns, 褒美 for gifts or praise.
reward for good deeds
give a child a reward
The loanword リワード (riwādo) is rarely used and sounds unnatural. Stick to native Japanese terms.
Virtue is its own reward.
Proverbial expression
He offered a reward for the return of his lost dog.
彼は見返りを求めずに人を助ける。
He helps people without expecting a reward.
頑張った自分へのご褒美にケーキを買った。
I bought a cake as a reward for my hard work.
この仕事の報酬は十分だ。
The reward for this job is sufficient.
A reward will be paid to informants.
You reap what you sow; one's own doing. Usually negative.
Getting punished is his own just reward.