suspended sentence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "suspended sentence" is correct and usable in written English.
It usually refers to a criminal sentence that is postponed or delayed, which typically means the defendant does not need to serve the sentence if they meet certain conditions, such as abiding by probationary restrictions. For example, "John received a five-year suspended sentence after pleading guilty to his charge, so long as he attended weekly therapy sessions for the next three years."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He received a suspended sentence.

The New York Times

Petitioner received a suspended sentence.

Cornell University

Alexei Navalny was given a suspended sentence.

The Guardian

The chef gets a suspended sentence.

The New York Times

Samutsevich was later given a suspended sentence.

The Guardian - Music

Her punishment was a suspended sentence.

The New Yorker

Mr. Chey received a suspended sentence.

The New York Times

Logovsky got a suspended sentence.

The New York Times - Magazine

He received a 180-day suspended sentence.

The Washington Post

His conviction activated an earlier suspended sentence.

The Guardian

He was given a suspended sentence.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "suspended sentence", clearly specify the conditions attached to the suspension. This ensures clarity regarding what the individual must do (or not do) to avoid serving the full sentence.

Common error

Avoid using "suspended sentence" interchangeably with "parole". A suspended sentence is given at the time of conviction, preventing jail time upfront, while parole is an early release from prison after a portion of the sentence has been served.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "suspended sentence" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as the object of a verb (e.g., "received a suspended sentence") or as a subject complement. As Ludwig AI also states, the phrase refers to a delayed sentence that the offender serves in probation unless he/she commits another crime.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Academia

15%

Science

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "suspended sentence" is a common noun phrase that refers to a criminal sentence that is postponed, often conditional on the offender meeting certain requirements. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is both correct and usable in written English. It appears most frequently in news and media, and academia, highlighting its role in reporting and discussing legal proceedings. Be sure to specify the terms attached to the suspension and avoid confusing the phrase with parole. Understanding its correct usage is crucial for clear communication in legal and general contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

probationary sentence

Focuses on the probationary aspect, where the sentence is conditional on good behavior.

conditional discharge

Emphasizes the release of the offender under specific conditions.

deferred sentence

Highlights the postponement of the sentence's imposition.

non-custodial sentence

Indicates the absence of imprisonment as part of the sentence.

community sentence

Specifies that the sentence involves community service instead of incarceration.

alternative sentencing

Broader term referring to any sentence that deviates from traditional incarceration.

leniency in sentencing

Highlights the act of the court showing mercy by reducing or suspending a sentence.

clemency

Refers to an act of mercy or forgiveness, potentially including the suspension of a sentence.

stay of execution

Focuses on delaying the enforcement of a sentence, particularly in capital cases.

judicial reprieve

Indicates a temporary suspension of a sentence granted by a judge.

FAQs

How is a "suspended sentence" different from probation?

A "suspended sentence" means the jail time is not served unless the offender violates the terms of their release. Probation is a set of conditions imposed by the court, and a violation can lead to the activation of the suspended sentence or additional penalties.

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

If the terms of a "suspended sentence" are violated, the offender may be required to serve the original jail or prison sentence. Additional penalties may also be imposed, depending on the nature of the violation.

Are there alternatives to a "suspended sentence"?

Yes, alternatives to a "suspended sentence" include "community service", "fines", "restitution" to the victim, or "house arrest", depending on the severity of the crime and the offender's history.

Can a "suspended sentence" affect someone's criminal record?

Yes, a "suspended sentence" still results in a criminal conviction, which will appear on the individual's criminal record. The conviction may have implications for future employment, travel, and other opportunities.