provided that

/prəˈvaɪd ðæt/ · pruh-VY-did thatcondition subordinator

State a condition that must be satisfied for the main claim or action to apply.

Use provided that to express this relationship precisely: state a condition that must be satisfied for the main claim or action to apply.

What provided that Really Means

The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.

1

Core condition

State a condition that must be satisfied for the main claim or action to apply.

Example

The method is reliable provided that the instruments are calibrated.

2

Clause-level frame

Use this expression in its normal grammatical frame so the relationship between the surrounding ideas remains explicit.

Example

The project can proceed, provided that funding continues.

3

Limit on the claim

It tells the reader how to interpret the timing, scope, evidence, contrast, condition, or consequence in the statement.

Example

Provided that the sample remains sealed, contamination is unlikely.

Use provided that Naturally

Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.

The method is reliable provided that the instruments are calibrated.

The project can proceed, provided that funding continues.

Provided that the sample remains sealed, contamination is unlikely.

Precision Matters

Provided that overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.

provided that

Means state a condition that must be satisfied for the main claim or action to apply.

vs.
in the event that

Means introduce a possible future condition and what should happen if it occurs.

provided that

Means state a condition that must be satisfied for the main claim or action to apply.

vs.
insofar as

Means limit a claim to the extent that a stated condition or relationship applies.

provided that

Means state a condition that must be satisfied for the main claim or action to apply.

vs.
subject to

Means dependent on a condition, governed by a rule, or vulnerable to an influence or change.

provided that

Means state a condition that must be satisfied for the main claim or action to apply.

vs.
even though

Means introduce a true circumstance that might have been expected to prevent the main result but did not.

Test provided that in Context

The claim is valid only if the stated condition is satisfied.

1

The estimate will remain valid ___ population growth stays within the projected range.

Prepared byFirst Academy
Editorial responsibilityFirst Academy Academic Team
Updated3 August 2026
Selection and reviewRead our methodology