probation
proh-BAY-shun
/prəˈbeɪʃən/
The release of an offender from detention, subject to a period of good behavior under supervision; a process or period of testing the character or abilities of a person in a new job.
In business, it's a 'trial period' where an employee can be let go more easily if they don't perform.
The story behind the word. The root 'probare' means 'to test' or 'to prove.' Whether you are a new employee or a released prisoner, you are in a period where you must 'prove' your worth or your good behavior.
Word relationships
- trial period: Trial period is more informal and less legally weighted than probation.
- permanency: Permanency is the state of being a full, non-probationary employee.
Commonly confused with
- parole: Parole is release after serving part of a sentence; probation is often instead of a sentence.
Word family
- probationary (adjective): Relating to a period of probation.
- probationer (noun): A person who is on probation.
Collocations
- on probation
- probation period
- probation officer
Example sentences
- "She is currently on a three-month probation period at the bank." New job trial.
- "The judge sentenced him to two years of probation instead of jail time." Legal context.
Memory hook
Probation is when you 'Probe' (examine) if a person is right for the job. Probation = A Probe of your skills.
When not to use
Don't confuse the criminal justice meaning with the employment meaning in sensitive contexts.
Fun facts
- The word 'probe' and 'probation' come from the same root.
Related words
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