Cool MateClause vs Stipulation
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
Clause
Top 2,000 (common)B1noun
Stipulation
FormalBeyond 10,000 (less common)
Most formal: StipulationMost common: Clause
| Clause | Stipulation | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | 🇬🇧 /["/klɔːz/"]/🇺🇸 /["/klɔːz/"]/ | 🇬🇧 //ˌstɪp.jʊˈleɪ.ʃən//🇺🇸 //ˌstɪp.jəˈleɪ.ʃən// |
| Meaning | A group of words with a subject and a verb that is part of a sentence. | A condition or requirement in an agreement. |
| Example | In legal terms, a clause is a distinct provision in a contract. | The contract included a stipulation that all payments be made in advance. |
| Register | Neutral | Formal |
| How common | Top 2,000 (common) | Beyond 10,000 (less common) |
| CEFR level | B1 | - |
| Part of speech | noun | |
| Collocations | main, subordinate, conditional, in a/the clause, confidentiality, indemnity, penalty, contain, have, add, in a/the clause, under a/the clause, clause on | contract stipulation, specific stipulation, legal stipulation |
| Antonyms | independent clause | withdrawal, disregard |
| Common mistakes | Confused 'clause' with 'clause of action'., Using 'clause' as a verb instead of a noun., Not recognizing dependent vs independent clauses. | Confusing with 'illustration' as both seem related to agreements., Using in informal contexts where simpler terms are suitable. |
| Usage notes | Usually used in academic, legal, or formal writing. Be careful not to confuse it with 'phrase,' which does not have both a subject and a verb. | Used in legal, formal contexts. Avoid in casual conversation. It helps clarify terms in agreements. |
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Frequently asked questions: Clause vs Stipulation
What's the difference between Clause and Stipulation?
Clause: A group of words with a subject and a verb that is part of a sentence. Stipulation: A condition or requirement in an agreement.
Which is more formal: Clause and Stipulation?
Stipulation is the most formal of these.
Which is more common: Clause and Stipulation?
Clause is the most common in everyday English.
Can you show an example of each?
Clause: In legal terms, a clause is a distinct provision in a contract. Stipulation: The contract included a stipulation that all payments be made in advance.
Can I use Clause and Stipulation interchangeably?
Not always. Clause and Stipulation are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.