Japanese word

褒美

Pronunciation

Romajihōbi

Meaning

  • nounreward

Example

よくできたので、褒美をもらいました。yo ku de ki ta no de hō bi o mo ra i ma shi ta

I received a reward because I did well.

Illustration for 褒美 (reward)

More examples

子どもは手伝いの褒美に、好きなお菓子を選びました。ko do mo wa te tsuda i no hō bi ni su ki na o ka shi o era bi ma shi ta

As a reward for helping, the child chose a favorite snack.

Core concept

Refers to a benefit or gift presented as recognition for doing well or accomplishing something.

Common phrases

  • 褒美をもらうhō bi o mo ra u

    receive a reward

  • 褒美を与えるhō bi o ata e ru

    give a reward

  • 褒美としてhō bi to shi te

    as a reward

Similar words

ご褒美gohōbi: A reward given for good behavior or effort, often in a personal or casual setting.
賞shō: A prize given for winning or achieving something, often in a contest.
報酬hōshū: Payment or another benefit given in return for work or a service.
褒賞hōshō: A formal reward given to recognize notable achievement or service.

Definition in Japanese

人の努力や功績を認めて与える金品や名誉。hito no do ryoku ya kō seki o mito me te ata e ru kin pin ya mei yo

Word origin

褒 (hō, "to praise") and 美 (bi, "beauty or goodness") form a Sino-Japanese compound for a reward given in appreciation.

Usage tips

  • The word 褒美 (hōbi) can describe a reward from another person, so reward is often a better translation than prize in noncompetitive situations.

Other meanings

  • prizenoun

Opposites

Word lists with this word