stipulate
What does "stipulate" mean?
To stipulate means to demand or specify a particular requirement as part of an agreement or contract. Imagine you are drawing up a set of rules for a shared apartment; when you insist that "no loud music is allowed after 10 PM," you are stipulating a condition for the living arrangement. This word is most commonly used in legal, professional, or academic contexts. It implies that a specific detail is non-negotiable and acts as a prerequisite for an agreement to proceed. You will often hear it followed by the word "that" or the preposition "for."
"stipulate" in conversation
Contract negotiation
We must stipulate that the payment is made before delivery.
We must stipulate that the payment is made before delivery.
That sounds fair, let's add that to the contract.
That sounds fair, let's add that to the contract.
Used here to establish a mandatory condition in a formal document.
Discussing rules
The company policy stipulates that all employees wear safety gear.
The company policy stipulates that all employees wear safety gear.
I understand, I'll make sure to bring my vest tomorrow.
I'll make sure to bring my vest tomorrow.
Highlights that the rule is written down and strictly enforced.
"stipulate" in a sentence
The contract stipulates a strict deadline for project completion.
The contract stipulates a strict deadline for project completion.
The law stipulates that every citizen has the right to a fair trial.
The law stipulates that every citizen has the right to a fair trial.
He stipulated that the donation be used exclusively for the new library wing.
He stipulated that the donation be used exclusively for the new library wing.
