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).
彼はノーベル賞を受賞した。
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.
The loanword リワード (riwādo) is rarely used and sounds unnatural. Stick to native Japanese terms.
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.