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provision

pruh-VIZH-un /prəˈvɪʒ.ən/

nounverbB2IELTSTOEFLGMAT

formal

The act of providing or supplying something; essential supplies (especially food, water, or medicine); or a legal clause.

Refers systematically to essential goods needed for survival during emergencies, or the act of supplying them.

The story behind the word. From Latin 'provisio', from 'providere' meaning 'to look ahead' or 'foresee' (built from 'pro-' forward and 'videre' to see). The transition from 'seeing beforehand' to 'stocking supplies for future needs' occurred in late Latin.

Word relationships

supplies: 'Supplies' is a general term; 'provisions' specifically carries connotations of food, water, and essential life-sustaining stores.
rations: 'Rations' implies strictly measured or limited allowances allocated during scarcity.

deprived state: Lacking basic human necessities or supplies.

Commonly confused with

provider: A provider is the entity supplying goods; provision is the act of supplying or the supplies themselves.

Word family

provide (verb): To make available or supply.
provisional (adjective): Arranged or existing for the present time; temporary.

Collocations

make provision for
emergency provisions
adequate provision
food provisions

Example sentences

"Aid convoys delivered water, canned food, and medical provisions to the cut-off mountain relief center." Emergency dispatch operation
"The emergency law included a special provision enabling local authorities to requisition empty buildings for shelter." Disaster management legislation

Memory hook

PRO- (forward) + VISION (see) = seeing ahead to buy food supplies before the storm hits. Looking ahead to store food.

When not to use

Do not use 'provisions' to refer to heavy factory equipment or industrial machinery.

Fun facts

Because 'provision' comes from 'looking ahead', its adjective form 'provisional' means temporary because it is made for present needs while looking forward.