prize, reward, praise
賞 centers on giving something valuable in recognition of merit: a prize, a reward, or praise. The idea is acknowledging worth with a tangible or verbal gift.
賞 combines 貝 (shell, representing money or valuables) with a phonetic component that also suggests giving. The character originally expressed bestowing a reward or prize.
The bottom is 貝 (shell, an ancient currency). The top looks like a little roof or covering. Imagine a valuable shell being presented under a ceremonial cover as a prize or reward.
For ショウ, picture a show where winners are praised and given prizes: show -> ショウ, and the 貝 (valuables) are handed out on stage.
prize; award
winning a prize; receiving an award; being awarded
appreciation (of art, music, poetry, etc.)
big prize; first prize
prize money; monetary award; reward
praise; admiration; commendation; approbation; applause
winning a prize; placing (high; in a contest)
offering a prize; prize competition; prize; reward
prize; trophy
admiration; appreciation; enjoyment; viewing (for pleasure)
awarding a prize; giving an award
bonus
certificate of merit; testimonial
prize; award; reward
supplementary prize; additional prize; auxiliary prize; bonus prize
reward and punishment
Academy Award
Nobel Prize
award ceremony; prize-giving
best-before date (on food); use-by date; expiry date; expiration date
medal