libertad condicional o bajo palabra
/libeɾtad kondiθjonal o baxo palabɾa/from spelling rules
The phrase "probation or parole" in Spanish is libertad condicional o bajo palabra.
This phrase refers to legal statuses where a person is released from prison or avoids prison under specific supervision and conditions.
What does it mean word for word?
The term libertad condicional literally translates to "conditional liberty."
Which one should you use?
Libertad condicional is the standard term used for parole, describing a situation where a prisoner is released early under supervision.
Did you know?
- The word palabra in the expression bajo palabra shares a common ancestor with the English word 'parole'. Both stem from the Greek word for 'comparison' or 'parable', which eventually evolved into meanings related to speech and formal promises.
- While 'probation' and 'parole' are distinct legal concepts in English, Spanish speakers often use the singular libertad condicional to cover both ideas, depending on whether the person is being released from prison or merely supervised in the community.
- In many Spanish-speaking legal systems, the concept of 'probation' (supervision without prison) is often handled through 'medidas cautelares' (precautionary measures) rather than a direct translation of the word 'probation'.
Examples in context
- Hizo varios cursos durante su libertad vigilada para reintegrarse a la sociedad.He took several courses during his parole to reintegrate into society.
- No puedo creer que Juan esté libre bajo palabra tan pronto.I can't believe Juan is on probation so soon.
Example conversation
Mateo and Elena are discussing a legal case on the news.
- MateoCreo que el acusado debería recibir libertad condicional o bajo palabra.I think the defendant should receive probation or parole.
- ElenaNo estoy de acuerdo, el delito fue muy grave.I don't agree, the crime was very serious.
- MateoPero ya cumplió parte de su condena, Elena.But he already served part of his sentence, Elena.
- ElenaAun así, prefiero que termine todo el tiempo en prisión.Even so, I prefer that he finishes all the time in prison.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries bajo, condicional, libertad, o, palabra, CC BY-SA 4.0.
