período
nounCEFR B2
What does “período” mean in English?
period — a length of time; a distinct stage in a sequence of events
period — a length of time; a distinct stage in a sequence of events (período de transición; en este período)
Example sentences
Durante el período de transición democrática, el país experimentó profundas transformaciones institucionales.
During the democratic transition period, the country underwent profound institutional transformations.
Los nuevos empleados pasan por un período de prueba de seis meses antes de ser contratados definitivamente.
New employees go through a six-month probationary period before being permanently hired.
En ese período, la producción industrial creció a un ritmo anual del 4%.
During that period, industrial production grew at an annual rate of 4%.
How to use it
El período (noun, masculine; also spelled periodo without accent — both are correct) means 'period' — a length of time; a distinct stage in a sequence of events. Key collocations: período de transición; período electoral; en este período; período de prueba; período de adaptación. Distinguish from fase (phase — an explicitly defined stage in a planned process) and etapa (stage — a step in a journey or project). Período de prueba (trial/probationary period) and período transitorio are important B2 legal/administrative compounds.
Common mistake
Período and periodo are both correct in modern Spanish (the RAE accepts both). Don't confuse with período menstrual (menstrual period) — context clarifies. Período de prueba = probationary period. Fase is preferred when the stages are formally numbered/defined. Etapa is for journeys (physical or metaphorical).