proviso
Americannoun
plural
provisos, provisoes-
a clause in a statute, contract, or the like, by which a condition is introduced.
-
a stipulation or condition.
- Synonyms:
- qualification, limitation, restriction
noun
-
a clause in a document or contract that embodies a condition or stipulation
-
a condition or stipulation
Etymology
Origin of proviso
1400–50; late Middle English < Medieval Latin prōvīsō, for prōvīsō ( quod ) it being provided (that), ablative neuter singular of Latin prōvīsus, past participle of prōvidēre to provide
Explanation
A proviso is something added to a document or agreement that details the terms. You might agree to buy a used car with a proviso that the fuzzy steering-wheel cover is included as part of the sale. Proviso looks a lot like the words "provide" and "provision," and it goes back to the Latin verb providēre, "foresee, provide." Proviso often implies that there are conditions to getting something, as when you agree to take your younger brother to the movies with you, provided — with the proviso — that you get popcorn and an 82-ounce soft drink. Most parents would agree, with the proviso that the drink be no more than 20 ounces. Agreed?
Vocabulary lists containing proviso
Plessy v. Ferguson (1896)
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Texas v. Johnson (1989)
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How the García Girls Lost Their Accents
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
There’s an interesting proviso in the Allbirds–to–NewBird AI switchover that’s gotten much less public attention.
From Slate • Apr. 16, 2026
For the time being, he is committed to Wales until 2028, with the obvious proviso that things could change if a big club comes calling.
From BBC • Mar. 27, 2026
The title refers to a proposed Hollywood adaptation of “Sherman’s March,” which Mr. McElwee signs off on with a measure of skepticism and a proviso that he be allowed to film a making-of documentary.
From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 10, 2026
The California Coastal Commission approved a permit for the event on May 9 with a major proviso.
From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 19, 2025
She accepted, with the proviso that the wedding take place in the spring, after she received her degree.
From "Big Science" by Michael Hiltzik
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
