on probation
idiom
1
: being tested and watched at a new job to see if one is able to do the job properly
As a new employee, I will be on probation for three months.
2
: being allowed to stay out of prison after committing a crime if one behaves well, does not commit another crime, etc.
She was arrested while on probation.
3
: being watched for a period of time during which one must behave well in order not to be seriously punished after having made a serious mistake or done something bad
He was on probation for cheating.
The student was put/placed on probation for copying test answers.
Examples of on probation in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
He is also prohibited from owning any animals while on probation, per the State's Attorney's statement.
—
Samira Asma-Sadeque, People.com, 8 July 2025
Merriman claims these alumni members are the same ones who were involved in the fraternity's 2022 hazing incident, which resulted in them being placed on probation.
—Aaron Valdez, The Enquirer, 2 July 2025
Under the terms of the sentence, Bozza was placed on probation for 30 months and ordered to perform 200 hours of community service, according to court records.
—Clifford Ward, Chicago Tribune, 27 June 2025
Police said the suspect was a transient man living in the area and was on probation.
—Rosalio Ahumada, Sacbee.com, 22 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for on probation
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Samira Asma-Sadeque, People.com, 8 July 2025
Merriman claims these alumni members are the same ones who were involved in the fraternity's 2022 hazing incident, which resulted in them being placed on probation.
—Aaron Valdez, The Enquirer, 2 July 2025
Under the terms of the sentence, Bozza was placed on probation for 30 months and ordered to perform 200 hours of community service, according to court records.
—Clifford Ward, Chicago Tribune, 27 June 2025
Police said the suspect was a transient man living in the area and was on probation.
—Rosalio Ahumada, Sacbee.com, 22 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for on probation
Cite this Entry
“On probation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/on%20probation. Accessed 14 Jul. 2025.
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