decoration / medal
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decoration / medal
A visible award, such as an order or a medal, that is given to a person for special service or achievements.
Für seine Tapferkeit im Einsatz erhielt der Feuerwehrmann ein Ehrenzeichen des Bundeslandes.
For his bravery in action, the firefighter received a state decoration.
The word is made up of 'Ehre' (honor) and 'Zeichen' (sign). So it is literally a 'Zeichen der Ehre' (sign of honor) that serves as recognition for a special achievement.
Dieses Ehrenzeichen ist ein Symbol für seinen Mut und seine Aufopferung.
This decoration is a symbol of his courage and self-sacrifice.
In connection with 'Ehrenzeichen' (decoration/medal), certain verbs are very typical. A decoration is 'verliehen' (awarded) to a person. The person 'erhält' (receives) or 'bekommt' (gets) it and can then 'tragen' (wear) it at official occasions.
Dem Wissenschaftler wurde für seine Forschung ein hohes Ehrenzeichen verliehen.
The scientist was awarded a high decoration for his research.
To state the reason for the award, the preposition 'für' (for) is used with the accusative. To name the person or institution giving the award, 'von' (from/by) with the dative is often used.
Sie bekam das Ehrenzeichen für ihr langjähriges soziales Engagement.
She received the decoration for her many years of social commitment.
price / prize
'der Preis' and 'das Ehrenzeichen' can both be an award for a special achievement. 'Preis' is often used in competitions, contests, or projects. It can be money, a trophy, or another reward. 'Ehrenzeichen' is more specific: it is a visible decoration, for example an order or a medal, that someone receives for special service or achievements. The words can be confused because both show that someone is being honored. In practical terms: in a competition, you usually win a 'Preis'; for long-term or special commitment, you are more likely to receive an 'Ehrenzeichen'.
Emma trägt das Ehrenzeichen bei der Feier an ihrer Jacke.
Emma wears the decoration on her jacket at the celebration.
Tom bekam für seinen Kurzfilm den ersten Preis.
Tom received first prize for his short film.