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.
award / labeling
Auszeichnung is the more general term for recognition that is awarded and can refer, for example, to a prize or a medal. An Ehrenzeichen is specifically a visible award, such as an order or a medal, given for special service or achievements.
Für ihre langjährige Arbeit erhielt Frau Berger ein Ehrenzeichen, das sie an der Jacke trug.
For her many years of work, Ms. Berger received a decoration that she wore on her jacket.
Für ihre langjährige Arbeit erhielt Frau Berger eine besondere Auszeichnung.
For her many years of work, Ms. Berger received a special award.
