noun · neutral

probation

UK/prəˈbeɪʃən/US/proʊˈbeɪʃən/pro·BA·tion

Band 5-6speakingtask2

a trial period at a job during which an employer assesses a new employee's suitability

Examples

New hires are usually on probation for the first three months.

If you pass probation, your contract becomes permanent.

During probation the company evaluates your performance carefully.

Band 8 sentence

The firm requires all new staff to complete a six-month probation during which their performance and cultural fit are assessed.

Collocations

  • on probation
  • probation period

Word family

probationary adjective

Common mistakes

I am probationary now.I am on probation now.

My probation ends after three months' probation.My probation ends after a three-month probation period.

Say it for a higher band

5trial period6probationary period7+probation

Synonyms

trial period

Easily confused

trial period

Most companies offer a three-month trial period for new employees.

Related words

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In Work & Career

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