provision
pruh-VIZH-un
/prəˈvɪʒn/
A condition, clause, or requirement in a legal document, or the act of supplying something.
In legal and policy contexts, specifically refers to a distinct clause or stipulation within a statute or agreement.
The story behind the word. Derived from Latin 'provisio' ('looking ahead' or 'forethought'), combining 'pro-' (ahead) and 'videre' (to see). Legal provisions were originally drafted to anticipate future problems or contingencies.
Word relationships
- clause: 'Clause' is a general contractual term; 'provision' emphasizes the active requirement or rule established by that clause.
- stipulation: 'Stipulation' highlights an explicit prerequisite or mandatory condition.
- omission: 'Omission' is the leaving out of a condition or requirement.
- exclusion: 'Exclusion' explicitly denies or removes a requirement or right.
Commonly confused with
- proviso: 'Provision' is any legal clause or supply; 'proviso' is specifically a conditional clause that limits or qualifies a broader statement.
Word family
- provide (verb): To supply or make available.
- provisional (adjective): Arranged for the present time; conditional.
Collocations
- statutory provision
- key provision
- make provision for
- under the provisions of
Example sentences
- "The contract includes a specific provision that allows for early termination under strict conditions." Contract Law
- "The constitutional provision guarantees freedom of speech to every citizen." Constitutional Law
Memory hook
PRO (ahead) + VISION (seeing): seeing ahead to write a law that covers future cases. Seeing ahead to set conditions.
When not to use
Do not confuse the legal sense (clause/stipulation) with the everyday plural 'provisions' meaning food and supplies, though both share a root.
Fun facts
- In constitutional history, the 'Provisions of Oxford' (1258) were drawn up by English barons to force King Henry III to accept a new form of government.
Related words
Explore more words
Clause, provisions, stipulation, Stipulate, Terms, requisition
Also appears in
- Environmental Policy & Sustainability Economics → International Environmental Accords
- Hobbies, Crafts & Leisure → Outdoor Recreation & Camping
- Emergency Services & Public Safety → Disaster Relief & Humanitarian Aid
- Emergency Services & Public Safety → Emergency Shelters & Evacuation
- Work & Office Life → Office IT & Tech Support
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