proviso

American  

[pruh-vahy-zoh] / prəˈvaɪ zoʊ /

noun

plural

provisos, provisoes

1. a clause in a statute, contract, or the like, by which a condition is introduced.

2. a stipulation or condition.

   Synonyms:

   qualification, limitation, restriction

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proviso British  

/ prəˈvaɪzəʊ /

noun

1. a clause in a document or contract that embodies a condition or stipulation

2. a condition or stipulation

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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?

Example Sentences

There’s an interesting proviso in the Allbirds–to–NewBird AI switchover that’s gotten much less public attention.

From Slate • Apr. 16, 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

Yet with the proviso that Sainz is still adapting to his new surroundings - car and team - Albon has had a decisive advantage over the Spaniard.

From BBC • Jul. 3, 2025

Wallace had one proviso: If the fruit or vegetables have been scorched or damaged by fire, it’s possible toxins or heavy metals have embedded in the food, and it should be discarded.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 25, 2025

He'd had this crusty old grandfather he'd never met, from Germany, who'd left his unborn grandchild a trust fund with the proviso that he be named after the old man.

From "How the García Girls Lost Their Accents" by Julia Alvarez