stipulate
C1Formal
Definition
Meaning
To specify or demand something as a condition of an agreement.
To require something as part of a formal arrangement; to make an express demand or condition.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Often used in legal, contractual, or formal contexts where precise conditions are being set. Implies a requirement that must be met.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage.
Connotations
Slightly more common in British legal/formal writing, but equally understood and used in American English.
Frequency
Comparable frequency in both varieties.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
stipulate that + clausestipulate + noun phrasestipulate for + noun phrase (less common)Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “No common idioms”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
The merger agreement stipulates that all employees will be retained for at least one year.
Academic
The research protocol stipulates that all participants must give informed consent.
Everyday
My landlord stipulated that I couldn't have pets in the flat.
Technical
The building code stipulates a minimum thickness for the foundation walls.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- The tenancy agreement stipulates that the rent must be paid by the third of each month.
- The regulations stipulate wearing protective equipment on site.
American English
- The contract stipulates payment within 30 days of invoice.
- State law stipulates a minimum age for drivers.
adverb
British English
- No common adverb form.
American English
- No common adverb form.
adjective
British English
- No common adjective form.
American English
- No common adjective form.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- The rules stipulate that you must wear a helmet.
- My job contract stipulates my working hours.
- The treaty stipulates that both countries will reduce their military forces.
- The will stipulated that the estate should be divided equally.
- The funding grant stipulates that all findings must be published in open-access journals.
- The lease explicitly stipulates that any structural alterations require written consent from the freeholder.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of STIPULATE as setting a STIP (a condition) that you LATE-r must follow.
Conceptual Metaphor
AGREEMENT IS A CONTAINER (conditions are placed inside it).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid confusing with 'stipulirovat'' which is a direct cognate but less common. Do not translate as 'trebovat'' (to demand) in all contexts, as it's more specific.
Common Mistakes
- Using 'stipulate' without an object (e.g., 'The contract stipulates.'). Confusing with 'stimulate'.
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'stipulate' LEAST appropriate?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, while it is very common in legal and formal agreements, it can be used in any context where a specific condition is being set, including business, academic, or everyday situations (e.g., a parent stipulating a curfew).
The most common noun form is 'stipulation' (e.g., 'One stipulation of the deal was confidentiality').
It is not standard. The typical patterns are 'stipulate that + clause' or 'stipulate + noun'. Avoid 'stipulate to pay'; use 'stipulate that payment must be made'.
They are close synonyms. 'Stipulate' often implies the condition is explicitly stated in a formal document or agreement. 'Require' is more general and can be used in any context where something is needed or obligatory.