proviso

noun

pro·​vi·​so prə-ˈvī-(ˌ)zō 

plural provisos also provisoes

1

: an article or clause (as in a contract) that introduces a condition

2

: a conditional stipulation

Synonyms of proviso

• provision
• requirement
• stipulation
• condition

Examples of proviso in a Sentence

He accepted the job with one proviso: he would work alone.

released the drunken revelers with the proviso that they behave for the remainder of the Mardi Gras

Recent Examples on the Web

Curtis wants to see a more holistic conversation on how to address delays in rural communities, rather than a proviso that diverts funding from projects long in the works. —Sofi Zeman, Kansas City Star, 15 Feb. 2026

The proviso was accepted by the WHO’s founders, and the country became a member on June 21, 1948. —Helen Branswell, STAT, 6 Feb. 2026

The Kings did have a proviso for Ferrell. —Eric Stephens, New York Times, 2 Jan. 2026

Inside, a large portion of its available floorspace will be given over to 500 apartments for rental and purchase, with the proviso that 50% of these must remain affordable. —New Atlas, 13 Dec. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Medieval Latin proviso quod provided that

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

proviso

noun

pro·​vi·​so prə-ˈvī-zō 

plural provisos or provisoes

1

: a sentence or clause in a legal document in which a condition is stated

2

: a limiting statement

released them with the proviso that they behave

Legal Definition

proviso

noun

pro·​vi·​so prə-ˈvī-zō 

plural provisos or provisoes

1

: an article or clause (as in a statute or contract) that introduces a condition

2

: a conditional stipulation

Etymology

Medieval Latin proviso quod provided that