Probation

/proʊˈbeɪʃən/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A period during which a person's suitability or performance is tested, often in a job or educational setting.

He was hired on probation for six months before becoming a permanent employee.

A judicial decision that suspends the sentence of a convict, allowing them to remain free under certain conditions.

After serving part of his sentence, he was released on probation to reintegrate into society.

The trial period during which a student or athlete is assessed to determine if they meet the necessary criteria.

The student was placed on academic probation due to poor grades.

From Latin 'probatio', meaning 'a proving' or 'test'.

on probation

Under a trial period or supervised release.

probation officer

A person supervising offenders placed on probation.

to serve probation

To fulfill the terms of a probation period.

parole

The conditional release of a prisoner before the completion of their sentence.

suspension

A period during which someone is temporarily barred from a privilege, typically as a punishment.

rehabilitation

The process of restoring someone to health or normal life through training and therapy.

To be in a testing phase in life.

I've been on probation since starting my new job.

A period where you can't mess up.

After that last mistake, I feel like I'm on probation with my boss.