Stipulate
/ˈstɪpjəˌleɪt/
verbB2
Definition
Stipulate means to say clearly what must be done or agreed on, often in a contract or rule. It means setting a condition or requirement that everyone involved must follow. For example, a contract might stipulate the price or the time to finish a job.
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See It in Action
To state a condition or demand clearly in an agreement
- •The contract stipulates that the work must be finished by June.
- •The rules stipulate wearing a helmet when riding a bike.
- •The law stipulates that all drivers must carry insurance.
To require or demand something as part of a deal or agreement
- •The teacher stipulated that homework must be submitted on time.
- •The agreement stipulates payment within 30 days.
Make It Stick
- ✓Think of "stipulate" like "say" or "ask," but more formal and with a rule or condition—it's not just talking, it's making a clear rule.
- ✓Picture two people shaking hands and one says, "You must finish the work by Friday"—this is a stipulation.
- ✓It's the feeling when you make a promise but with clear rules everyone must follow.
- ✓Sounds like "STIP-yu-late" → Imagine someone tapping a pen (stip) and saying "This is a must!"
- ✓Think of a contract or a teacher giving clear instructions that everyone must obey.
- ✓NOT like "suggest" (which is an idea), stipulate means a clear, firm rule or demand.
- ✓NOT like "agree" (which means both say yes), stipulate means one side sets a rule that must be followed.
- ✓NOT like "ask" (which can be a simple question), stipulate is a clear condition or demand in formal situations.
Try Other Words
- •Require: to need or demand something (Use when focusing on a necessary condition)
- •State: to say or express clearly (Use when emphasizing clear expression without legal force)
- •Demand: to ask for something firmly (Use when the condition is very strong or non-negotiable)
- •Specify: to explain or describe clearly (Use when giving exact details)
Unboxing
- •Word parts: "stipul-" (from Latin "stipula" meaning a condition or provision) + "-ate" (a verb ending meaning to make or do)
- •Etymology: From Latin "stipulatus," past participle of "stipulari," meaning to bargain or demand conditions
- •Historical development: Originally used in legal and formal language to mean making clear agreements or conditions
- •Modern usage: Used in law, contracts, rules, and formal agreements to explain required conditions
Reflect & Connect
•How does stipulating conditions help people avoid misunderstandings in agreements?
•Can you think of a time when someone failed to follow a stipulation? What happened?
Fill in the blanks
1.The contract stipulate___ that the payment must be made within 30 days.
2.When making a deal, it is important to stipulate ___ the responsibilities of each person.
3.The rules stipulate that all employees ___ wear safety equipment at work.
4.Unlike a suggestion, to stipulate means to ___ a condition clearly and firmly.
5.The teacher stipulated ___ homework should be submitted on time to get full credit.
6.If a contract does not stipulate ___, it can cause confusion later.
7.The agreement stipulates ___ both parties must sign before it becomes valid.