"Provided that" is a common phrase used to indicate a condition, such as "I'll go to the party provided that I finish my homework first." The spelling of this phrase corresponds to its pronunciation, with the emphasis on the second syllable of "provided" and the "that" pronounced with a soft "th" sound. In IPA phonetic transcription, "provided" is spelled /prəˈvaɪdɪd/, while "that" is spelled /ðæt/. Paying attention to the correct spelling and pronunciation of this phrase can help to create clear and effective communication.
"Provided that" is a conjunction that is used to indicate a condition or stipulation upon which something else relies or depends. It is often used to introduce a condition that must be fulfilled in order for a certain action or event to happen.
In this context, "provided that" essentially means "on the condition that" or "if." It establishes a prerequisite or requirement that needs to be met for a specified outcome to occur.
This phrase is commonly used to outline a condition or limitation in a situation or agreement. It implies that a certain action or outcome can be achieved, but only if the specified condition is satisfied. For example, "You can borrow my car for the weekend, provided that you return it with a full tank of gas."
"Provided that" is often seen in legal or formal contexts, including contracts, agreements, and stipulations, where conditions or terms need to be established in order to ensure fair and equitable outcomes. It is important to carefully consider the conditions outlined after this phrase when interpreting the conditions of an agreement or the applicability of a certain rule. By using "provided that," the speaker or writer sets forth a condition that must be met in order for the subsequent action or event to occur.
On condition; upon these terms; this stipulation being made.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The phrase "provided that" consists of two main components: "provided" and "that".
The word "provided" is derived from the verb "provide", which comes from the Latin word "providere". "Providere" is composed of two Latin roots: "pro", meaning "before" or "in front", and "videre", meaning "to see". Hence, "provide" carries the connotation of "to see beforehand" or "to make arrangements in advance".
The word "that" has Old English origins, where it was originally spelled as "þæt". It is believed to have originated from the Proto-Germanic language and has connections to similar words in German and Dutch.
Putting these components together, "provided that" implies that something is arranged or made available in advance (provided/provision) and in a specific manner or condition (that).