proviso

American  

[pruh-vahy-zoh] / prəˈvaɪ zoʊ /

noun

provisos, plural provisoes plural

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

---

proviso British  

/ prəˈvaɪzəʊ /

noun

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

2. 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?

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

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

Young coaches are often appointed on the proviso that their role is to prepare the team to win games.

From BBC • Feb. 27, 2026

Over a decade ago, Britain’s environmental regulator approved a new coastal nuclear power station on the proviso its cooling system wouldn’t suck in millions of fish from the Bristol Channel.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 12, 2025

The young man had a kind of poise about him, though, that looked as though it might hold up indefinitely, with the very small proviso that he keep at least one hand in one pocket.

From "Nine Stories" by J. D. Salinger