probationary sentence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "probationary sentence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in legal contexts to refer to a sentence that allows an offender to serve their time under supervision rather than in prison. Example: "After reviewing the case, the judge decided to impose a probationary sentence instead of incarceration."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

He received a probationary sentence without jail time.

The New York Times

Instead they prosecuted him for damaging property, resulting in a court case and a probationary sentence.

The Guardian - Arts

He told Mr. Alampi: "I hope the lack of a probationary sentence will assist you in maintaining your license.

The New York Times

The appeals court let stand a fine and a probationary sentence the trial judge imposed at the time of sentencing.

The New York Times

Deaver, who died in 2007, was found guilty on three counts, but he received only a probationary sentence and went on to re-establish his lobbying career.

The New York Times

Adele did not press charges and Norman's literary friends rallied round; he spent 17 days in a psychiatric ward and got a probationary sentence.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Probationary sentences are unusual.

The Guardian

They received small fines and probationary sentences.

The Guardian

Opinions vary enormously on the relative merits of custodial and probationary sentences.

The Guardian

Of the eight Orthodox Brooklyn Jews on the New York sex offender registry, prosecuted in Brooklyn, four received probationary sentences.

The Guardian

Anil Kumar, a former McKinsey executive, and Adam Smith, a former trader at Mr. Rajaratnam's hedge fund Galleon Group, were both given probationary sentences because of their extensive cooperation.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about legal matters, use "probationary sentence" to clearly indicate a sentence served under supervision rather than incarceration. This avoids ambiguity and ensures precise legal communication.

Common error

Avoid using "probationary sentence" interchangeably with "parole". Probation is given instead of jail time, while parole is granted after a portion of a prison sentence has been served. Using the correct term ensures legal accuracy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "probationary sentence" functions as a noun phrase that describes a specific type of legal judgment. It refers to a sentence where an offender is released into the community under supervision, instead of serving time in prison. Ludwig AI confirms its use in legal and journalistic contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

8%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "probationary sentence" is a noun phrase that accurately describes a legal sentence served under supervision in the community, instead of incarceration. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and frequent use in legal and news contexts. While grammatically sound, it's important to use this term precisely and avoid confusion with related terms such as "parole". Alternative phrases like "suspended sentence" or "community service" may be appropriate depending on the specific context. Always consider the legal precision required when discussing sentencing outcomes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

suspended sentence

Refers to a sentence that is not carried out, provided the offender meets certain conditions during a probationary period; implies a potential for imprisonment if conditions are violated.

probation with conditions

Highlights the specific requirements attached to the probation, such as drug testing or counseling; adds emphasis on the conditions aspect.

community sentence

Involves unpaid work or other activities within the community, often as an alternative to imprisonment; broadens the scope to include specific actions.

supervised release

Focuses on the monitoring aspect of the offender's behavior and compliance with the law; underlines the supervision component.

conditional discharge

Releases an offender without immediate punishment, subject to compliance with specified conditions; focuses on the release aspect under specific terms.

deferred sentence

Postpones sentencing to allow the offender to complete certain requirements, after which the charges may be dismissed; emphasizes the postponement of the judgment.

alternative sentencing

Encompasses a range of non-custodial punishments designed to rehabilitate offenders; widens the scope to various sentencing methods.

lenient sentence

Highlights the mild or merciful nature of the judgment; focuses on the outcome's favorable aspect for the offender.

non-custodial sentence

Specifies that the offender will not be incarcerated; emphasizes the avoidance of imprisonment.

misdemeanor probation

Specifies that the probation is related to a misdemeanor offense; narrows the scope to a specific type of crime.

FAQs

What exactly does a "probationary sentence" entail?

A "probationary sentence" is a court-ordered period of supervision in the community, often in lieu of incarceration. The individual must adhere to specific conditions, such as maintaining employment, abstaining from drug use, and reporting to a probation officer.

How does a "probationary sentence" differ from parole?

A "probationary sentence" is served instead of jail time, whereas parole is granted after serving a portion of a prison sentence. Probation is a sentence in itself; parole is a conditional release from incarceration.

What are some alternatives to a "probationary sentence"?

Depending on the severity and circumstances of the crime, "suspended sentence", "community service", or a fine might be considered as alternatives to a "probationary sentence".

What happens if someone violates the terms of their "probationary sentence"?

If an individual violates the terms of their "probationary sentence", the court may revoke their probation. This could result in them being incarcerated for the remainder of the original sentence, or facing other penalties as determined by the judge.