stipulate - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
stipulate Word Meanings
- to establish an agreement or condition
- to specify a requirement
- to demand as a condition of an agreement
stipulate Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
stipulate Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈstɪp.jʊ.leɪt/
US
/ˈstɪp.jʊ.leɪt/
stipulate Word Etymology
Root decomposition: stiple = a mark or an agreement, -ate = cause to become. Historical origin: Latin stipulare → Old French stipuler → English stipulate. Memory image: Imagine signing a contract, making clear marks to establish terms, like emphasizing a point in your agreement.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Stipulate is a formal verb meaning to require or specify terms as part of an agreement. It is commonly used in contracts, negotiations, and rules to set conditions that must be met or accepted. In everyday use, you might stipulate a deadline, a payment schedule, or a condition that the other party must satisfy before the deal proceeds. The nuance is more binding and precise than simply 'state' or 'say', and it often implies an explicit, legally or formally backed condition. Typical collocations include stipulate that, stipulate a condition, or stipulate in a contract.
Usage Reminders
- Use in formal contexts only; pair with that to introduce a specific condition; distinguish from say or state when you want a written, binding term; often appears in passive voice: is stipulated; combine with a noun: stipulate a deadline, stipulate conditions.
Common Misconceptions
- Stipulate == simply say or declare something,
- Stipulate always means a legal contract; it can be used in casual settings,
- To stipulate is the same as 'specify' in all contexts,
- Stipulate does not require agreement from both parties,
- Stipulate means 'to approve' rather than 'to require'
Thinking Differences
Stipulate is seen as a formal, contractual term in English; learners often pick it up from legal or corporate text and may overuse it in casual talk. Emphasize that it implies written, agreed terms and is less common in everyday speech.
Learning Tips
- 6 items:
- Study common collocations: stipulate that, stipulate a condition, stipulate in a contract.
- Practice passive constructions: is stipulated, were stipulated.
- Compare with specify and state to grasp nuance.
- Read contract excerpts to see natural usage.
- Create your own clauses: stipulate a deadline, stipulate payment terms.
- Remember formal tone; avoid casual contexts.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'stipulate'?
A.Ask
B.Require
C.Eat
D.Sleep
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'stipulate' used correctly?
A.He decided to stipulate a new car.
B.The stipulate was very long.
C.She stipulated that he must finish the project by Friday.
D.They stipulated happily in the park.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'stipulate'?
A.Forget
B.Offer
C.Give
D.Demand
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is an antonym of 'stipulate'?
A.Suggest
B.Imply
C.Refrain
D.Require
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life situation would someone stipulate a condition?
A.When watching a movie at the cinema.
B.When buying a house and setting terms with the seller.
C.When playing sports with friends.
D.When shopping for groceries.
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