période d'essai
The English phrase "probation period" is translated into French as période d'essai.
The phrase is used to describe a trial period at the start of a new job to determine if an employee is suitable for the role. In a professional context, you can say you are en période d'essai to indicate you are currently on a probation period.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of période (period) and d'essai (of trial), which literally means "period of trial".
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun période is feminine.
Did you know?
- The word essai is also used in the sport of rugby to describe a 'try'. Both meanings stem from the idea of a 'test' or an 'attempt' to achieve a goal.
- The word essai shares its roots with the English word 'essay', which originally meant a 'trial' or an 'attempt' at a task before it became a term for a piece of writing.
- During a période d'essai, an employer can terminate a contract without providing a specific justification, a luxury not typically available once the period ends.
Examples in context
- J'ai signé un contrat de travail avec une période d'essai de trois mois.I signed an employment contract with a three-month probation period.
- J'ai réussi ma période d'essai et je suis maintenant un employé permanent.I successfully completed my probation period and I am now a permanent employee.
- Le nouveau système introduit une période de stage probatoire de six mois pour les nouveaux employés.The new system introduces a six-month probatory period for new employees.
- Nous devons évaluer ses compétences pendant la période de stage probatoire.We need to assess his/her skills during the probatory period.
- Je suis encore en période d'essai.I am still on my probation period.
- Ma période d'essai se termine demain.My probation period ends tomorrow.
- La période d'essai dure trois mois.The probation period lasts three months.
- J'ai réussi ma période d'essai.I passed my probation period.
Example conversation
Nathan and Emma are talking about their new jobs at a cafe.
- NathanComment se passe ta période d'essai, Emma ?How is your probation period going, Emma?
- EmmaC'est très bien, je suis ravie.It is going very well, I am delighted.
- NathanC'est super pour toi !That is great for you!
- EmmaEt toi, Nathan, quand est-ce que la tienne finit ?And you, Nathan, when does yours end?
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries période, CC BY-SA 4.0.
