Accomplishment vs. Award: What's the Difference?
Edited by Harlon Moss || By Janet White || Updated on September 28, 2023
An accomplishment is the successful completion or achievement of a task, goal, or objective, while an award is a prize or honor given in recognition of one’s achievements or accomplishments.
Key Differences
Accomplishment and award are two terms that are interconnected yet distinctly different. An accomplishment denotes the successful achievement or completion of something, such as a task, goal, or objective. It emphasizes the act of overcoming challenges to achieve a specific outcome or to master a skill or knowledge area. Conversely, an award refers to a prize, honor, or acknowledgment given to an individual or group in recognition of their achievements, accomplishments, skills, or contributions, reflecting external recognition of one’s accomplishments.
An accomplishment is inherently satisfying and marks the realization of one’s efforts and hard work. It can be personal or professional and does not necessarily require external validation or recognition. It’s a demonstration of one’s ability to achieve set goals or objectives, reflecting one’s capabilities and determination. On the other hand, an award, being a form of external recognition, is conferred by others, usually peers, organizations, or institutions, to acknowledge and appreciate one’s accomplishments, contributions, or excellence in a specific field or area.
While the sense of achievement and self-fulfillment associated with an accomplishment is intrinsic and self-derived, the recognition and appreciation associated with receiving an award are extrinsic. An accomplishment is a reflection of one’s internal drive, diligence, and competence, emphasizing the fulfillment of personal aspirations or the attainment of set targets. In contrast, an award serves as a symbol of external validation and acknowledgment from others, highlighting the appreciation and recognition of one’s achievements or excellence by others.
Every accomplishment may not result in an award, and every award may not represent an individual accomplishment. Accomplishments can be private, known only to the individual who achieved them, and may range from small, everyday tasks to significant, life-changing achievements. Awards, meanwhile, are public recognitions and are usually given for specific accomplishments, contributions, or excellence that are deemed worthy of acknowledgment and are recognized and valued by others.
The pursuit of accomplishments is driven by one’s motivation, goals, and aspirations, focusing on the achievement of specific outcomes or the mastery of particular skills or knowledge areas. Awards are driven by the judgments, evaluations, and acknowledgments of others, focusing on the recognition and appreciation of one’s accomplishments, excellence, or contributions in a specific field or area.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
The successful completion or achievement of a task or goal.
A prize or honor given in recognition of achievement.
Source
Intrinsic and self-derived.
Extrinsic, conferred by others.
Nature
Can be personal or professional.
Usually public and formal.
Validation
Self-validated and does not require external acknowledgment.
Requires acknowledgment by others.
Scope
Can be private and not known to others.
Public recognition for specific accomplishments.
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Accomplishment and Award Definitions
Accomplishment
Mastery of a skill or knowledge area.
His proficiency in multiple languages is an impressive accomplishment.
Award
A token of appreciation or acknowledgment.
The scientist was granted an award for his groundbreaking research.
Accomplishment
Fulfillment of one's aspirations or goals.
Publishing his first book was a lifelong accomplishment.
Award
A formal recognition given by an authority.
The film won several awards at the international film festival.
Accomplishment
The successful completion of a task or objective.
Finishing the marathon was a significant accomplishment for Mark.
Award
A grant or payment made to support someone's work or studies.
The university offered her an award to assist with her research.
Accomplishment
The achievement of a desired aim or result.
Graduating with honors was her greatest accomplishment.
Award
A distinction conferred for outstanding achievement.
He earned a prestigious award for his contributions to literature.
Accomplishment
The act of accomplishing or the state of being accomplished; completion
The accomplishment of this task has taken months.
Award
To grant as merited or due
Awarded prizes to the winners.
Accomplishment
Something carried out or completed successfully; an achievement
She was honored for her many accomplishments as a researcher.
Award
To grant an amount or other benefit legally due
Awarded damages to the plaintiff.
Accomplishment
An acquired skill or refinement
A singer known for his accomplishment in vocal technique.
Award
Something awarded or granted, as for merit.
Accomplishment
The act of accomplishing; completion; fulfilment.
The accomplishment of an enterprise, of a prophecy, etc
Award
An amount or other benefit granted as legally due.
Accomplishment
That which completes, perfects, or equips thoroughly; acquirement; attainment; that which constitutes excellence of mind, or elegance of manners, acquired by education or training.
Award
(legal) A judgment, sentence, or final decision. Specifically: The decision of arbitrators in a case submitted.
Accomplishment
Something accomplished; an achievement.
Increasing sales by 20% in the last quarter was seen as a major accomplishment for the business.
Award
(legal) The paper containing the decision of arbitrators; that which is warded.
Accomplishment
The lexical aspect (aktionsart) of verbs or predicates that change over time until a natural end point.
Award
A trophy or medal; something that denotes an accomplishment, especially in a competition. A prize or honor based on merit.
Accomplishment
The act of accomplishing; entire performance; completion; fulfillment; as, the accomplishment of an enterprise, of a prophecy, etc.
Award
A negotiated minimum wage that is set for a particular trade or industry; an industrial award.
Accomplishment
That which completes, perfects, or equips thoroughly; acquirement; attainment; that which constitutes excellence of mind, or elegance of manners, acquired by education or training.
Accomplishments have taken virtue's place,And wisdom falls before exterior grace.
Award
(intransitive) To determine; to make or grant an award.
Accomplishment
The action of accomplishing something
Award
(transitive) To give (an award).
Four or five of these medals are awarded every year.
Accomplishment
An ability that has been acquired by training
Award
(transitive) To give (a person) an award.
He was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature.
Accomplishment
A task or project that has been completed successfully.
Organizing the charity event was a notable accomplishment.
Award
To give by sentence or judicial determination; to assign or apportion, after careful regard to the nature of the case.
The arbitrators awarded damages to the complainant
Award
To give by sentence or judicial determination; to assign or apportion, after careful regard to the nature of the case; to adjudge; as, the arbitrators awarded damages to the complainant.
To reviewThe wrongful sentence, and award a new.
Award
To determine; to make an award.
Award
A judgment, sentence, or final decision. Specifically: The decision of arbitrators in a case submitted.
An award had been given against.
Award
The paper containing the decision of arbitrators; that which is warded.
Award
A grant made by a law court;
He criticized the awarding of compensation by the court
Award
A tangible symbol signifying approval or distinction;
An award for bravery
Award
Something given for victory or superiority in a contest or competition or for winning a lottery;
The prize was a free trip to Europe
Award
Give, especially as a reward;
Bestow honors and prizes at graduation
Award
Give on the basis of merit;
Funds are granted to qualified researchers
Award
Bestow an honor upon
Award
A prize or honor given in recognition of one's achievements.
She received an award for her outstanding community service.
FAQs
Is an accomplishment always a positive achievement?
Generally, yes, accomplishments are considered positive achievements or successful completions of tasks.
Can anyone give an award?
Typically, awards are given by recognized bodies or institutions, but informal awards can be given by anyone.
Is every accomplishment recognized with an award?
No, not every accomplishment is recognized with an award.
Can a small task be considered an accomplishment?
Yes, even completing small tasks can be considered accomplishments.
Does every accomplishment bring happiness?
While accomplishments often bring satisfaction, they do not universally guarantee happiness.
Can awards have monetary value?
Yes, some awards include monetary prizes or grants.
Is receiving an award always based on merit?
Ideally, yes, but some awards may be given due to favoritism or other non-merit-based criteria.
Can an accomplishment be shared?
Yes, accomplishments can be individual or shared among a group or team.
Can an award be withdrawn?
Yes, awards can be withdrawn if given under false pretenses or if the awardee violates certain conditions.
Is an award always a tangible object?
No, an award can also be a title, recognition, or even a monetary grant.
Do all awards have long-lasting value?
The value of an award can vary; some may have enduring value, while others may not.
Can one’s daily job be considered an accomplishment?
Completing tasks or achieving goals in one's daily job can certainly be considered accomplishments.
Is accomplishment a continuous process?
Yes, individuals can continually achieve new accomplishments throughout life.
Can awards be informal?
Yes, awards can be both formal and informal.
Can accomplishment be measured?
Yes, accomplishments can often be measured against set goals or objectives.
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
Edited by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
