verb

stipulate

/ˈstɪpjəleɪt/ · say it: STIP·yuh·layt

to specify as a condition

In Formal & Academic

In more detail

1. (verb) to demand or state clearly as a necessary condition of an agreement

2. (verb) to mention or describe as a fact in a contract or agreement

Examples

1. The contract stipulates that employees must work five days a week.
2. The lease stipulates the monthly rent amount and the tenant's responsibilities.

How to use stipulate

Stipulate is used in formal, legal, and business contexts to indicate that something is explicitly required or stated as a condition. It carries a tone of formal authority and definiteness. Unlike 'suggest' or 'request', stipulate implies a non-negotiable demand or a binding statement made in written agreements.

Common phrases

stipulate that
stipulate in writing
the contract stipulates
legally stipulate
expressly stipulate

Synonyms

specify · require · demand · insist on · prescribe

Word family

stipulation (noun) · stipulated (adjective)

A common mistake

Learners sometimes use 'stipulate' in casual contexts where 'state' or 'mention' would be more appropriate; stipulate is reserved for formal conditions, especially in contracts and negotiations.

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