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Law vocabulary · Legal Writing & Drafting

Provided that

Meaning in law, with examples

phraseCommon term

In law, provided that means: A phrase that adds a condition or exception to what has just been said: the main rule applies only if the condition is met.

In Turkish: … şartıyla, … kaydıyla, ancak

How it is used

Traditional in contracts and statutes: 'The Buyer may terminate, provided that it gives 30 days' notice.' A condition introduced this way is called a 'proviso'. Plain-English guides suggest 'if' or 'but' instead, because long provisos can make it unclear what is being limited.

Example sentences

  1. The tenant may keep a pet, provided that it does not disturb the neighbours.

  2. Either party may assign this Agreement, provided that the other party consents in writing.

Common collocations

  • provided that
  • provided always that
  • provided, however, that
  • subject toA phrase showing that one provision depends on, or is limited by, another rule, condition or provision.
  • clauseA numbered section of a contract or other legal document that deals with one particular point, such as payment, termination or confidentiality.
  • provisionA part of a law or a legal document that states a particular rule, condition or requirement.
  • shallA modal verb used in contracts and laws to show that something is required, not simply that it will happen in the future.
  • notwithstandingA formal word meaning 'despite' or 'regardless of', used in legal texts to show that one rule applies even if another rule seems to say something different.

More terms: Legal Writing & Drafting

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This page explains English vocabulary for learners. It is not legal advice.