Understanding how to use the word “provision” correctly is crucial for clear and precise communication, whether in formal writing, legal contexts, or everyday conversation. “Provision” encompasses a range of meanings, from supplying necessary resources to establishing conditions within agreements.
This article provides a comprehensive guide to the various uses of “provision,” offering detailed explanations, examples, and practice exercises to help you master this versatile word. This guide is particularly beneficial for English language learners, legal professionals, students, and anyone who seeks to improve their command of the English language.
By exploring the different facets of “provision,” you’ll gain the confidence to use it accurately and effectively, enhancing your ability to express complex ideas with clarity and precision. Let’s delve into the intricacies of “provision” and unlock its full potential in your writing and speech.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Definition of “Provision”
- Structural Breakdown
- Types and Categories of “Provision”
- Examples of “Provision” in Sentences
- Usage Rules for “Provision”
- Common Mistakes with “Provision”
- Practice Exercises
- Advanced Topics
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Conclusion
Definition of “Provision”
The word “provision” is a versatile term with several related meanings. It can function as both a noun and a verb, each with distinct applications.
Understanding these nuances is crucial for using “provision” correctly in various contexts. Let’s break down its definition and explore its different facets.
As a noun, “provision” primarily refers to:
- The act of supplying or providing something, especially food or other necessities.
- A clause in a legal instrument, law, etc., stating a particular thing that must or will be done.
- Preparation or arrangement for future needs.
As a verb, “provision” means to supply with food, drink, or other necessities.
In essence, “provision” revolves around the concepts of supply, condition, and preparation. Its function in a sentence depends heavily on the context and the intended meaning.
Whether you’re discussing the provision of aid to a disaster-stricken area or a specific provision in a contract, clarity is key.
Structural Breakdown
Understanding the structural elements of “provision” involves examining its morphology and how it fits into sentence structures. “Provision” is derived from the Latin word providere, meaning “to foresee” or “to provide.” This etymological root sheds light on its core meaning of preparing for future needs.
As a noun, “provision” can be used in both singular and plural forms, although the plural form “provisions” often refers specifically to supplies of food or other necessities. The singular form can refer to a single clause or condition, or the act of providing.
When used as a verb, “provision” is typically transitive, meaning it requires a direct object. For example, “The government provisioned the refugees with shelter and food.” Here, “refugees” is the direct object, receiving the action of being provisioned.
Structurally, “provision” can appear in various sentence positions. As a noun, it can be the subject, object, or complement.
As a verb, it is the action being performed.
Consider these examples:
- Subject: Provision of clean water is essential.
- Object: The contract includes a provision for early termination.
- Complement: Her job is the provision of medical care.
- Verb: The ship was provisioned for a long voyage.
Types and Categories of “Provision”
The word “provision” can be categorized into different types based on its specific meaning and usage. Understanding these categories can help you choose the most appropriate word form and context for your writing and speaking.
Provision as a Supply of Resources
In this sense, “provision” refers to the act of supplying or providing resources, often necessities such as food, water, shelter, or medical care. This usage emphasizes the practical aspect of meeting immediate needs.
Example: “The aid organization focused on the provision of food and clean water to the earthquake victims.”
Provision as a Clause or Condition
This category involves “provision” as a specific clause, term, or condition within a legal document, contract, or agreement. It highlights the formal and binding nature of the stipulated requirement.
Example: “The contract includes a provision stating that all disputes must be resolved through arbitration.”
Provision as Preparation for the Future
Here, “provision” signifies the act of preparing or making arrangements for future events or needs. This usage underscores foresight and planning.
Example: “The family made provision for their children’s education by setting up a savings account.”
Examples of “Provision” in Sentences
To fully understand the usage of “provision,” let’s examine a variety of examples categorized by its different meanings. These examples will illustrate how “provision” functions in various contexts, both as a noun and a verb.
Examples: Provision as Supply
This section focuses on examples where “provision” refers to the act of supplying resources or necessities. The following table showcases a wide range of sentences to illustrate this usage.
| # | Sentence |
|---|---|
| 1 | The charity is dedicated to the provision of healthcare to underserved communities. |
| 2 | The government ensured the provision of essential services during the pandemic. |
| 3 | The humanitarian organization coordinated the provision of food and shelter to the refugees. |
| 4 | The provision of clean drinking water is a priority in the disaster relief efforts. |
| 5 | The company focuses on the provision of high-quality educational resources. |
| 6 | The hospital is responsible for the provision of medical care to all patients. |
| 7 | The school emphasizes the provision of a safe and supportive learning environment. |
| 8 | The community center aims to improve the provision of social services to local residents. |
| 9 | The library plays a vital role in the provision of information and resources to the public. |
| 10 | The farm ensures the provision of fresh produce to local markets. |
| 11 | The program is designed to enhance the provision of job training opportunities. |
| 12 | The project seeks to improve the provision of affordable housing. |
| 13 | The organization is committed to the provision of legal aid to those in need. |
| 14 | The government invested in the provision of public transportation. |
| 15 | The company specializes in the provision of IT support services. |
| 16 | The university is known for its emphasis on the provision of research opportunities. |
| 17 | The museum is dedicated to the provision of cultural experiences. |
| 18 | The foundation supports the provision of educational scholarships. |
| 19 | The group advocates for the provision of equal rights for all citizens. |
| 20 | The team is responsible for the provision of technical assistance. |
| 21 | The store ensures the provision of quality goods to its customers. |
| 22 | The factory focuses on the provision of innovative solutions. |
| 23 | The agency is dedicated to the provision of emergency services. |
| 24 | The department is responsible for the provision of public safety. |
| 25 | The network is committed to the provision of reliable information. |
| 26 | The service ensures the provision of timely support. |
| 27 | The center is dedicated to the provision of community resources. |
| 28 | The program focuses on the provision of mentorship opportunities. |
| 29 | The initiative aims to improve the provision of access to education. |
| 30 | The project seeks to enhance the provision of sustainable solutions. |
Examples: Provision as a Clause or Condition
This section provides examples of “provision” used to denote a clause, term, or condition within a legal document or agreement. These examples showcase its role in formal and binding contexts.
| # | Sentence |
|---|---|
| 1 | The contract includes a provision for early termination if certain conditions are met. |
| 2 | There is a provision in the lease agreement that prohibits subletting. |
| 3 | The law contains a provision that protects whistleblowers from retaliation. |
| 4 | The treaty includes a provision for the peaceful resolution of disputes. |
| 5 | The insurance policy has a provision that covers damage from natural disasters. |
| 6 | The will contains a provision regarding the distribution of assets. |
| 7 | The settlement agreement includes a provision for confidentiality. |
| 8 | The constitution has a provision that guarantees freedom of speech. |
| 9 | The employment contract contains a provision for severance pay. |
| 10 | The sales agreement includes a provision regarding warranties. |
| 11 | The shareholders’ agreement has a provision for resolving deadlocks. |
| 12 | The loan agreement includes a provision for late payment fees. |
| 13 | The partnership agreement contains a provision for the allocation of profits and losses. |
| 14 | The merger agreement includes a provision for indemnification. |
| 15 | The licensing agreement has a provision for royalty payments. |
| 16 | The non-disclosure agreement includes a provision for protecting confidential information. |
| 17 | The franchise agreement contains a provision for territorial rights. |
| 18 | The construction contract includes a provision for change orders. |
| 19 | The service agreement has a provision for service level guarantees. |
| 20 | The supply agreement includes a provision for price adjustments. |
| 21 | The operating agreement has a provision for management responsibilities. |
| 22 | The distribution agreement includes a provision for marketing support. |
| 23 | The investment agreement contains a provision for exit strategies. |
| 24 | The research agreement includes a provision for intellectual property rights. |
| 25 | The sponsorship agreement has a provision for advertising placements. |
| 26 | The consulting agreement includes a provision for deliverables. |
| 27 | The confidentiality agreement contains a provision for data security. |
| 28 | The escrow agreement includes a provision for fund disbursement. |
| 29 | The settlement agreement has a provision for release of claims. |
| 30 | The purchase agreement includes a provision for due diligence. |
Examples: Provision as Preparation
This section presents examples of “provision” used to indicate preparation or arrangement for future events or needs. These examples highlight the foresight and planning aspects of the word.
| # | Sentence |
|---|---|
| 1 | The family made provision for their retirement by investing in a diversified portfolio. |
| 2 | The company set aside funds as provision for potential legal liabilities. |
| 3 | The government is making provision for the increasing needs of the aging population. |
| 4 | We need to make provision for unforeseen circumstances in our project planning. |
| 5 | The school is making provision for students with special needs. |
| 6 | The city council is making provision for future growth by investing in infrastructure. |
| 7 | The charity is making provision for the long-term needs of the community. |
| 8 | The organization is making provision for employee training and development. |
| 9 | The hospital is making provision for the next pandemic by stockpiling medical supplies. |
| 10 | The university is making provision for online learning resources. |
| 11 | The company is making provision for cybersecurity threats. |
| 12 | The government is making provision for climate change adaptation. |
| 13 | The family is making provision for their children’s future. |
| 14 | The team is making provision for project risks. |
| 15 | The business is making provision for economic downturns. |
| 16 | The foundation is making provision for community development. |
| 17 | The group is making provision for environmental conservation. |
| 18 | The society is making provision for cultural preservation. |
| 19 | The institution is making provision for technological advancements. |
| 20 | The organization is making provision for international cooperation. |
| 21 | The project is making provision for stakeholder engagement. |
| 22 | The initiative is making provision for community empowerment. |
| 23 | The campaign is making provision for public awareness. |
| 24 | The strategy is making provision for market competition. |
| 25 | The plan is making provision for resource allocation. |
| 26 | The system is making provision for data management. |
| 27 | The process is making provision for quality control. |
| 28 | The mechanism is making provision for conflict resolution. |
| 29 | The framework is making provision for ethical considerations. |
| 30 | The model is making provision for sustainable growth. |
Examples: Provision in Legal Contexts
This section showcases the usage of ‘provision’ within legal scenarios, emphasizing its formal and precise application in laws, contracts, and agreements. These examples highlight the critical role of ‘provision’ in legal documentation and interpretation.
| # | Sentence |
|---|---|
| 1 | According to the provision of the law, the defendant is entitled to a fair trial. |
| 2 | The provision in the contract clearly states the terms of payment. |
| 3 | The judge interpreted the provision of the statute to determine the outcome of the case. |
| 4 | The company violated a key provision of the environmental regulations. |
| 5 | The provision of the treaty outlines the responsibilities of each signatory nation. |
| 6 | The legal team scrutinized every provision of the settlement agreement before advising their client. |
| 7 | The provision of the constitution guarantees certain rights to all citizens. |
| 8 | The amendment added a new provision to the existing legislation. |
| 9 | The provision of the insurance policy details the coverage for specific damages. |
| 10 | The lawyer argued that the provision was ambiguous and open to interpretation. |
| 11 | The compliance officer ensured adherence to every provision of the regulatory framework. |
| 12 | The provision regarding intellectual property rights was carefully negotiated. |
| 13 | The clause containing the provision was deemed unenforceable by the court. |
| 14 | The provision of the contract was subject to intense legal debate. |
| 15 | The provision of the statute was designed to protect consumers from fraud. |
| 16 | The provision of the agreement specifies the conditions for termination. |
| 17 | The provision of the law provides for penalties for non-compliance. |
| 18 | The provision of the charter outlines the powers of the governing body. |
| 19 | The provision of the regulation aims to promote fair competition. |
| 20 | The provision of the document establishes the guidelines for data privacy. |
| 21 | The provision of the code sets the standards for professional conduct. |
| 22 | The provision of the bylaw governs the internal affairs of the organization. |
| 23 | The provision of the order mandates specific actions for law enforcement. |
| 24 | The provision of the directive provides guidance for government agencies. |
| 25 | The provision of the procedure details the steps for filing a complaint. |
| 26 | The provision of the policy outlines the rules for employee behavior. |
| 27 | The provision of the manual provides instructions for operating the equipment. |
| 28 | The provision of the schedule sets the timeline for project completion. |
| 29 | The provision of the amendment clarifies the original intent of the law. |
| 30 | The provision of the decree establishes the new government regulations. |
Usage Rules for “Provision”
To use “provision” correctly, it’s essential to understand the grammatical rules that govern its usage. This section outlines these rules, including considerations for agreement, prepositions, and formality.
Agreement and Number
When using “provision” as a noun, pay attention to number agreement. If you are referring to a single clause or condition, use the singular form.
If you are referring to multiple clauses or conditions, or to supplies of resources, use the plural form “provisions.”
Correct: The contract includes a provision for arbitration.
Correct: The ship was stocked with provisions for the long journey.
Incorrect: The contract includes a provisions for arbitration.
Prepositions with “Provision”
The preposition used with “provision” often depends on the context. Common prepositions include “for,” “of,” and “in.”
Provision for: This is used when indicating preparation or arrangement.
Example: The company made provision for future expansion.
Provision of: This is used when referring to the act of supplying something.
Example: The provision of clean water is crucial.
Provision in: This is used when referring to a clause or condition within a document.
Example: There is a provision in the contract about termination.
Formal vs. Informal Usage
“Provision” is generally considered a formal word, particularly when used to refer to clauses or conditions in legal documents. In informal contexts, simpler alternatives like “arrangement” or “supply” may be more appropriate.
Formal: The agreement includes a provision for dispute resolution.
Informal: The agreement has an arrangement for settling disagreements.
Common Mistakes with “Provision”
Even experienced English speakers sometimes make mistakes when using “provision.” Being aware of these common errors can help you avoid them in your own writing and speaking.
| Incorrect | Correct | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| The contract includes many provisions concerning termination. | The contract includes many provisions concerning termination. | “Provisions” is acceptable here because it refers to multiple clauses. |
| They made a provision for the future. | They made provision for the future. | Correct usage; no article “a” is needed before “provision” in this context. |
| The provision of food was immediately after the disaster. | The provision of food was immediate after the disaster. | “Immediately” is an adverb and should be “immediate,” an adjective to describe the action. |
| The law has provisions about freedom of speech. | The law has a provision about freedom of speech. | Using “a provision” here emphasizes a single clause or condition. It can also be “provisions” if referring to multiple clauses. |
| The agreement includes a provision of early termination. | The agreement includes a provision for early termination. | The correct preposition to use is “for” when indicating preparation or arrangement. |
Practice Exercises
To solidify your understanding of “provision,” complete the following practice exercises. These exercises cover various aspects of its usage, from filling in the blanks to constructing sentences and correcting errors.
Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks
Fill in the blanks with the appropriate form of “provision” (provision or provisions) and the correct preposition (for, of, in).
| # | Question | Answer |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | The contract has a ___________ ___________ early termination. | provision for |
| 2 | The ___________ ___________ clean water is essential for public health. | provision of |
| 3 | The will includes several ___________ regarding the distribution of assets. | provisions |
| 4 | The government made ___________ ___________ emergency services. | provision for |
| 5 | There is a ___________ ___________ the lease agreement that prohibits pets. | provision in |
| 6 | The organization focuses on the ___________ ___________ education to underprivileged children. | provision of |
| 7 | The company set aside ___________ ___________ potential legal liabilities. | provision for |
| 8 | The law contains ___________ that protect consumers from fraud. | provisions |
| 9 | The agreement includes a ___________ ___________ dispute resolution. | provision for |
| 10 | The city council is making ___________ ___________ future growth. | provision for |
Exercise 2: Sentence Construction
Construct sentences using “provision” based on the given prompts.
| # | Prompt | Example Answer |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Use “provision” to describe a clause in a contract about payment terms. | The contract includes a provision outlining the payment terms. |
| 2 | Use “provision” to describe supplying food to a community. | The provision of food helped the community recover after the storm. |
| 3 | Use “provision” to describe preparing for retirement. | They made provision for their retirement by saving diligently. |
| 4 | Use “provisions” to describe multiple clauses in a legal document. | The legal document contained several provisions regarding liability. |
| 5 | Use “provision” to describe setting aside resources for future needs. | The company made provision for future research and development. |
| 6 | Use “provision” to describe a clause related to intellectual property. | The agreement includes a provision concerning intellectual property rights. |
| 7 | Use “provision” to describe supplying medical care. | The provision of medical care is essential for the health of the population. |
| 8 | Use “provision” to describe preparing for an emergency. | The city made provision for emergency shelters during the hurricane. |
| 9 | Use “provisions” to describe multiple terms related to confidentiality. | The confidentiality agreement contains several provisions to protect sensitive information. |
| 10 | Use “provision” to describe planning resources for future growth. | The company made provision for future growth by investing in new technologies. |
Exercise 3: Error Correction
Identify and correct the errors in the following sentences related to the use of “provision.”
| # | Incorrect Sentence | Corrected Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | The agreement includes a provisions for early termination. | The agreement includes a provision for early termination. |
| 2 | The provision of food were essential after the disaster. | The provision of food was essential after the disaster. |
| 3 | They made a provision for their retirement. | They made provision for their retirement. |
| 4 | The contract has many provision concerning liability. | The contract has many provisions concerning liability. |
| 5 | The provision in the contract are clear. | The provision in the contract is clear. |
| 6 | The government ensured the provision of healthcare are accessible to all. | The government ensured the provision of healthcare is accessible to all. |
| 7 | The school made a provision for students with special needs. | The school made provision for students with special needs. |
| 8 | The agreement include a provision for resolving disputes. | The agreement includes a provision for resolving disputes. |
| 9 | The provision in the law protect consumer rights. | The provision in the law protects consumer rights. |
| 10 | The company set aside a provision for environmental clean-up. | The company set aside provision for environmental clean-up. |
Advanced Topics
For advanced learners, exploring more complex aspects of “provision” can deepen their understanding and refine their usage. This section delves into idioms with “provision” and nuances of its use in specific fields.
Idioms with “Provision”
While “provision” is not commonly used in many idioms, understanding its underlying meaning can help interpret phrases where it may appear indirectly. One related concept is the idiom “make ends meet,” which implies making provision for one’s financial needs.
Example: “Despite the challenges, they managed to make ends meet by carefully managing their resources.”
Nuances of “Provision” in Specific Fields
In legal and financial contexts, “provision” carries specific weight. In law, it refers to legally binding clauses.
In finance, it can refer to setting aside funds for anticipated liabilities or losses. Understanding these field-specific nuances is crucial for accurate interpretation and application.
Example (Legal): “The provision of the contract regarding
intellectual property was heavily negotiated.”
Example (Financial): “The bank had to increase its provision for potential loan defaults due to the economic downturn.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
This section addresses common questions and concerns related to the usage of “provision.” Understanding these FAQs can further clarify its application and usage nuances.
- Q: Is “provision” formal or informal?
- A: “Provision” is generally considered a formal word, especially when referring to clauses in legal documents. In more casual contexts, words like “arrangement” or “supply” may be more appropriate.
- Q: What prepositions are commonly used with “provision”?
- A: The most common prepositions are “for,” “of,” and “in,” depending on the context. “Provision for” indicates preparation, “provision of” refers to supplying something, and “provision in” indicates a clause within a document.
- Q: Can “provision” be used as a verb?
- A: Yes, “provision” can be used as a verb, meaning to supply with food, drink, or other necessities. For example, “The ship was provisioned for a long voyage.”
- Q: What is the plural form of “provision”?
- A: The plural form is “provisions,” which often refers to supplies of food or other necessities. It can also refer to multiple clauses or conditions.
- Q: How does “provision” differ from “stipulation”?
- A: While both terms relate to conditions, “provision” is broader and can refer to supplies or preparations, while “stipulation” specifically refers to a condition or requirement that is agreed upon.
- Q: Is it correct to say “a provision of” or simply “provision of”?
- A: “Provision of” is generally used without the article “a” when referring to the act of supplying something in general. However, “a provision” is correct when referring to a specific clause or condition.
Conclusion
Mastering the use of “provision” involves understanding its various meanings, structural nuances, and contextual applications. By exploring its role as a supply of resources, a clause or condition, and a means of preparation, you can confidently incorporate “provision” into your vocabulary.
This comprehensive guide has provided you with definitions, examples, usage rules, and practice exercises to refine your understanding. Whether you’re drafting legal documents, planning for the future, or simply aiming to enhance your communication skills, a solid grasp of “provision” will undoubtedly prove invaluable.