Probation Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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probation
[prəˈbeɪʃ(ə)n ]
Definitions
legal
The state of being subject to a period of testing and evaluation, typically after committing a crime.
Synonyms
monitoring, supervision, trial period.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| probation |
Typically used in a legal or employment context to describe a period during which a person's behavior or performance is closely observed to determine if they meet certain standards.
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| supervision |
Used to indicate the action of overseeing activities or people, often to ensure tasks are completed correctly and safely. It is frequently used in work or educational settings.
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| monitoring |
Generally used in various contexts to describe the continuous observation or checking of a process, system, or behavior to ensure that it functions as expected.
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| trial period |
Refers to a designated timeframe during which someone or something is tested to assess its suitability, performance, or quality before making a final decision. Commonly used in employment, software testing, and product usage.
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Examples of usage
- He was sentenced to three years of probation after being found guilty of theft.
- The judge decided to grant her probation instead of a prison sentence.
work
A trial period during which a new employee is evaluated by the employer.
Synonyms
assessment, evaluation, trial period.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| probation |
This is used mostly in legal or employment contexts to describe a period during which someone's behavior or performance is closely monitored.
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| trial period |
This is often used in employment, subscription services, or product testing contexts to describe a temporary phase during which something is used or tested before making a final decision.
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| evaluation |
This is a more formal term used to describe a systematic determination of a subject's merit, worth, or significance, often with feedback for improvement. It can be used in work, academic, and various project scenarios.
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| assessment |
This is used when referring to the process of judging or evaluating the value, quality, or importance of something, commonly in educational, financial, or professional settings.
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Examples of usage
- She performed well during her probation and was offered a permanent position.
- During the probation period, the employer assesses the employee's suitability for the job.
education
A period during which a student's performance is assessed before a decision regarding promotion or retention is made.
Synonyms
assessment phase, evaluation period, trial period.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| probation |
This is a duplicate entry and has the same context and examples as above. |
| evaluation period |
This phrase is generally used in business, education, or research to describe a specific time frame during which performance, skills, or results are assessed.
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| assessment phase |
This term is commonly used in project management or academic settings to describe an initial stage where processes, skills, or capabilities are evaluated.
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| trial period |
This term is often used in the context of subscriptions, services, or products to describe a temporary period during which a user can try out the service or product before making a commitment.
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Examples of usage
- The teacher decided to extend his probation to give him more time to improve his grades.
- At the end of the probation period, the student's academic progress will be reviewed.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Legal Context
- In the legal system, probation allows individuals convicted of crimes to serve their sentences under supervision instead of in prison.
- Probation conditions can include regular check-ins, mandatory counseling, and restrictions on certain activities.
- Failure to comply with probation terms can lead to imprisonment, highlighting the seriousness of this monitoring period.
Education
- Students can be placed on academic probation if their grades drop below a certain standard, giving them a chance to improve.
- This educational practice encourages accountability and provides support resources for struggling students.
- It typically lasts for one or two semesters, after which students must meet specific criteria to continue their enrollment.
Pop Culture
- Popular television shows often depict characters on probation, showcasing the challenges and lessons of this experience.
- Movies sometimes portray probation officers as key figures who guide or challenge individuals trying to change their lives.
- Comics and literature also explore themes of redemption and second chances through the lens of probation experiences.
Psychology
- The concept of probation can be linked to theories of behavior change and accountability, emphasizing the importance of support during transitions.
- Success rates for individuals on probation can improve dramatically with effective support systems and encouragement.
- Probation represents an opportunity for personal reflection and growth, allowing individuals to correct their past mistakes.
Origin of 'probation'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'probation' comes from the Latin 'probatio', meaning 'testing' or 'proving'.
- Originally, it was used in a legal context to refer to someone being monitored before being fully committed to a role or responsibility.
- The term emerged in English usage around the late 15th century, relating to trials in both employment and legal situations.
The word 'probation' originates from the Latin word 'probatio', which means 'testing' or 'proof'. The concept of probation as a legal term dates back to the 19th century, where it was used to refer to a period of trial or testing for individuals who had committed crimes. Over time, the term has expanded to include probationary periods in various fields such as employment and education, where individuals are assessed and evaluated before a final decision is made. Today, probation plays a crucial role in rehabilitation, monitoring, and performance evaluation in different contexts.