Provisions Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈprɪvɪʒənz/

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A provision is a supply or stock of food, equipment, or other essential items provided or stored for a particular purpose, such as an emergency situation, a journey, or a long-term event.

Examples

1. “The company made provisions for employees to take paid vacation time.”

2. “She packed extra provisions for the hike in case of bad weather.”

Synonyms

1. Supplies

2. Stockpile

Antonyms

1. Deprivation

2. Shortage

Additional Information

Provisions can be physical, such as food, water, and equipment, or intangible, such as financial support or emotional support. In emergency situations, provisions can be crucial for survival and can include items like first aid kits, shelter, and communication devices. Provisions can also refer to planning and preparation made in advance, such as preparing a budget or creating a contingency plan. In business, provisions can be made for employees, customers, or partners to ensure their needs are met. In a broader sense, provisions can refer to any resource or arrangement put in place to address a specific need or situation. In some contexts, provisions can also refer to laws or regulations that outline specific requirements or guidelines for a particular situation.

Provisions can be made in various forms, such as cash, goods, or services. In some cases, provisions can be made through donations or sponsorships. In other cases, provisions can be made through government programs or community initiatives. Provisions can also be made through personal or family resources, such as savings or inheritance. In emergency situations, provisions can be made through emergency funds or relief efforts. In business, provisions can be made through investments or partnerships.

The concept of provisions is closely related to the idea of preparedness and contingency planning. Provisions can be made to address a wide range of needs, from basic necessities like food and shelter to more complex needs like education and healthcare. In some cases, provisions can be made to address specific vulnerabilities or risks, such as natural disasters or economic downturns.

Provisions can be made in various settings, including personal, business, or community contexts. In personal contexts, provisions can be made for oneself or for one’s family. In business contexts, provisions can be made for employees, customers, or partners. In community contexts, provisions can be made for the general public or for specific groups within the community.

Etymology

The word “provisions” comes from the Old French word “provision,” which means “a thing provided” or “a supply.” This word is derived from the Latin word “providere,” which means “to provide for” or “to prepare.” The term has been in use since the 15th century and has evolved to encompass a wide range of meanings related to supply, stock, and preparation.

Usage Notes

The word “provisions” is often used in formal or official contexts, such as in business, government, or emergency response. It can also be used in more casual contexts, such as when talking about personal or family preparations. In general, the word is used to convey a sense of planning, preparation, and provision for a specific need or situation.

Cultural References

The word “provisions” has been referenced in various cultural contexts, such as in literature, film, and music. For example, in the novel “The Hunger Games,” the concept of provisions is central to the protagonist’s survival strategy. In the TV show “Survivor,” contestants must make provisions for themselves and their tribemates. In music, the phrase “provisions for the journey” has been used as a metaphor for life’s challenges and opportunities.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

Some common idiomatic expressions related to the word “provisions” include:

Provisions for the apocalypse
Provisions for the unexpected
Provisions for a rainy day

Collocations

Some common collocations with “provisions” include:

Emergency provisions
Personal provisions
Business provisions

Frequency of Use

The word “provisions” is most commonly used in formal or official contexts, such as business, government, or emergency response. However, it can also be used in more casual contexts, such as when talking about personal or family preparations. The frequency of use of the word has increased in recent years due to the growing importance of preparedness and contingency planning.

Common Misspellings

Some common misspellings of the word “provisions” include:

Provitions
Priveleges
Provisons