general provision

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "general provision" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in legal, financial, or policy contexts to refer to a broad or overarching rule or guideline that applies to a range of situations. Example: "The contract includes a general provision that outlines the responsibilities of both parties in case of a dispute."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

He demanded general provision of anti-retroviral drugs by the government, pushing aside worries about cost, toxicity and capitalist imperialism.

The Economist

The legal liability approach is still used in many developing countries for the general provision of medical care.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Reconciling these two provisions, one a general provision and one specific to ozone, will not necessarily be easy, and further delays in putting the new standard into effect are highly likely.

The New York Times

American education was still aimed at broadening or raising the level of general provision, however, so neither programs for the gifted nor those for vocational education were treated as specifically as in some other countries.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Increasing integration into the Yugoslav state, including general provision of public education, brought an end to clan autonomy, but clans themselves remain an important element in Montenegrin social life.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It would be incorrect as a matter of statutory interpretation to override Section 102.112 with the earlier, more general provision of Section 102.111, which is directly concerned not with the deadline for filing returns but rather with establishing the general makeup and duties of the Elections Canvassing Commission.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

In all its general provisions, it must err on the side of expeditious exposure.

The Guardian

After Title VIII's partial provisions for education, the title concludes with a "General Provisions" section that is a mishmash of qualifiers and addenda.

The New Yorker

In the Basel I accord, it is categorised as undisclosed reserves, revaluation reserves, general provisions, hybrid instruments and subordinated term debt.

The Guardian - Business

The last section of the title is a lengthy recitation of "general provisions," which concerns eligibility for the emergency food aid and formulas for allocations to the states.

The New Yorker

It doesn't buy the argument that the less prescriptive fundamental standards – which include general provisions for handling complaints, nutrition and "safe care"– will have at least the same effect as the current rules.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "general provision" to introduce a broad principle before detailing specific exceptions or qualifications.

Common error

Avoid using "general provision" as a substitute for detailed planning or specific rules. It sets a foundation but requires further elaboration to be effective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "general provision" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It refers to a broad or overarching rule, law, or guideline, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

24%

Science

24%

Encyclopedias

16%

Less common in

Wiki

16%

Formal & Business

12%

Reference

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "general provision" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase, as affirmed by Ludwig. It functions to introduce a broad rule or guideline, typically in formal contexts such as legal, policy, or business settings. While adaptable, it is most effective when followed by specific clauses that clarify its application, avoiding overly broad interpretations. Alternatives like "broad stipulation" or "overarching clause" can be used to convey similar meanings with slight nuances. Ludwig's analysis highlights the importance of clear and precise language when employing this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

broad stipulation

Emphasizes the comprehensive and inclusive nature of the provision.

overarching clause

Highlights the provision's role as a dominant and encompassing element.

universal condition

Focuses on the provision's applicability to all cases or situations.

blanket regulation

Stresses the wide-ranging and indiscriminate application of the rule.

comprehensive term

Indicates that the provision is thorough and covers many aspects.

standard requirement

Highlights that the provision is a typical or expected part of a process or agreement.

across-the-board rule

Emphasizes that the rule applies equally to everyone or everything.

inclusive specification

Indicates that the provision includes many possibilities or factors.

common stipulation

Suggests that the provision is widely used or accepted.

overall mandate

Highlights that the provision is a guiding principle or directive.

FAQs

How can I use "general provision" in a sentence?

You might say, "The contract includes a "general provision" outlining dispute resolution."

What are some alternatives to "general provision"?

Consider using phrases like "broad stipulation", "overarching clause", or "universal condition" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the term "general provision"?

Use "general provision" when referring to a broad rule or guideline applicable across a range of situations, especially in legal, financial, or policy contexts.

How does a "general provision" differ from a specific clause?

A "general provision" sets a broad principle, while a specific clause details how that principle applies in particular circumstances.