# proviso

/pɹəˈvaɪzoʊ/ (US) · /pɹəvˈaɪzəʊ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/proviso
Updated: 2026-10-16

## Definition

a special condition added to an agreement. You agree to something, but only if this condition is kept.

For teachers: a condition or stipulation attached to an agreement or legal document, making its effect dependent on compliance. Often introduced by the phrase 'with the proviso that'.

## Examples

- They buy the house with the proviso that repairs finish soon.
- The manager approves the funding with the proviso that the team submits monthly progress reports.
- The peace accord was signed with the proviso that both sides would withdraw heavy weapons within ninety days, a clause that later proved decisive when violations threatened to unravel the entire settlement.

## Synonyms

condition, provision, stipulation

## Usage notes

- Commonly appears in the pattern 'with the proviso that' followed by a clause.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.