provision
8 synonyms and 0 antonyms for provision, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A supply of something needed for the future, especially food.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use provision
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old French provision, from Latin provisio, "foresight, preparation" — from providere, "to see ahead, provide for."
Full origin of provision →Frequently asked questions
What does “provision” mean?
The word “provision” means a supply of something needed for the future, especially food. In plain terms, supplies set aside for future use, a clause in a legal document, or (in tech/finance) preparing accounts, systems, or accounts for use.
How do you pronounce “provision”?
“Provision” is pronounced pruh-VIHZH-uhn (/pɹəˈvɪʒ.ən/ in IPA).
How do you use “provision” in a sentence?
Here is “provision” used in a sentence: “The ship was stocked with enough provisions for a six-month voyage.”
What is another word for “provision”?
Words with a similar meaning to “provision” include supply and victual.
What part of speech is “provision”?
Depending on how it is used, “provision” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “provision” come from?
The word “provision” comes from Latin. From Old French provision, from Latin provisio, "foresight, preparation" — from providere, "to see ahead, provide for.".
Is “provision” a common word?
“Provision” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “provision” have?
“Provision” has 5 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a supply of something needed for the future, especially food.
What is the difference between a provision and a clause in a contract?
A provision is a specific condition or requirement within a law, contract, or agreement, focusing on what the parties must do. A clause is a distinct section of the document that contains such a provision, so a clause can hold one or more provisions.
What is the difference between provision and provisions?
In the singular, a provision most often means a specific condition within a law, contract, or agreement. In the plural, provisions usually means supplies of things needed for the future, especially food, so the plural often shifts the meaning.
What is the difference between a provision and a condition?
Both appear in legal and contractual language, but a provision is any specific clause or requirement stated in the agreement. A condition is a particular type of provision that something else depends on, meaning a stated outcome only applies if the condition is met.