Subject to the following conditions
Formal business communication expression
Literally: Dependent on the rules that come next
Use this to introduce requirements that must be met for an agreement to be valid.
In 15 Seconds
- Agreement depends on specific rules.
- Commonly used in contracts and job offers.
- Sets clear boundaries for a deal.
Meaning
This phrase means that an agreement or offer is only valid if specific rules or requirements are met first. It is a professional way of saying 'yes, but only if you do these things.'
Key Examples
3 of 6Formal job offer
The offer is subject to the following conditions: a background check and references.
The offer is subject to the following conditions: a background check and references.
Borrowing a car from a roommate
I'll let you borrow my car subject to the following conditions: fill the tank.
I'll let you borrow my car subject to the following conditions: fill the tank.
Texting a friend about a party
I'll come to the party subject to the following conditions: there must be pizza.
I'll come to the party subject to the following conditions: there must be pizza.
Cultural Background
This phrase is a cornerstone of 'fine print' culture in English-speaking countries. It reflects a legalistic society where written terms are often more important than verbal promises. It is the language of caution and corporate safety.
The Colon Trick
Always follow this phrase with a colon (:) if you are listing the conditions. It looks much cleaner.
Don't Sound Like a Robot
Avoid this phrase in casual conversation unless you are intentionally being funny or sarcastic.
In 15 Seconds
- Agreement depends on specific rules.
- Commonly used in contracts and job offers.
- Sets clear boundaries for a deal.
What It Means
This phrase is a formal gatekeeper. It tells the reader that a deal is not final yet. You are saying 'yes,' but with specific requirements. Think of it as a bridge between an offer and a result. Without meeting the conditions, the bridge collapses. It is very common in business and legal documents. It keeps things clear and protects everyone involved.
How To Use It
You usually see this phrase right before a list. You can start a sentence with it. For example: Subject to the following conditions, we accept your offer. You can also put it at the end of a sentence. Use a colon : after it to introduce your list. This makes your writing look organized and professional. It helps you sound like an expert who pays attention to detail.
When To Use It
Use this when you are writing a contract or a job offer. It is perfect for formal emails where money is involved. If you are renting an apartment, you will see this phrase. It is used when you need to be 100% clear. It prevents misunderstandings later on. Use it when you want to set firm boundaries in a polite way.
When NOT To Use It
Do not use this phrase with your friends or family. It sounds very cold and robotic. If you say it at dinner, people might think you are joking. Avoid it in casual texts or relaxed conversations. It is too heavy for a simple 'yes' or 'no.' Using it in a romantic setting might cause an argument! Keep it for the office or the bank.
Cultural Background
This phrase comes from the long history of English contract law. In the UK and USA, written agreements are very important. People love to have everything documented to avoid court. This phrase is a safety net for businesses. It reflects a culture that values precision and legal protection. It became very popular during the industrial revolution when trade grew.
Common Variations
You might hear people say provided that or on the condition that. Lawyers often use contingent upon for the same meaning. In casual speech, people just say only if. Another variation is pending the following. All of these mean that the result depends on something else happening first. Choose the one that fits your level of formality.
Usage Notes
This is a high-level formal expression. Use it in writing rather than speaking to maintain a professional tone.
The Colon Trick
Always follow this phrase with a colon (:) if you are listing the conditions. It looks much cleaner.
Don't Sound Like a Robot
Avoid this phrase in casual conversation unless you are intentionally being funny or sarcastic.
The 'Fine Print' Secret
In the US and UK, if you see this phrase, pay close attention! It usually means there is a catch or a rule you might miss.
Examples
6The offer is subject to the following conditions: a background check and references.
The offer is subject to the following conditions: a background check and references.
This protects the company if the background check fails.
I'll let you borrow my car subject to the following conditions: fill the tank.
I'll let you borrow my car subject to the following conditions: fill the tank.
Using formal language for a simple favor adds a bit of authority.
I'll come to the party subject to the following conditions: there must be pizza.
I'll come to the party subject to the following conditions: there must be pizza.
This is a humorous way to use formal language in a casual text.
I can forgive you, subject to the following conditions: you never lie again.
I can forgive you, subject to the following conditions: you never lie again.
This shows the speaker is serious and firm about their needs.
The discount is valid subject to the following conditions: you must spend $50.
The discount is valid subject to the following conditions: you must spend $50.
Standard retail language for promotions.
We will sign the deal subject to the following conditions regarding the timeline.
We will sign the deal subject to the following conditions regarding the timeline.
Used to pause a deal until specific terms are agreed upon.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence to make it sound professional.
We accept your proposal ___ the following conditions: the price must be lowered.
The phrase 'subject to' is the standard way to introduce conditions for an agreement.
Choose the best phrase for a legal contract.
This agreement is ___ the following conditions.
'Subject to' is the most formal and appropriate choice for a legal context.
🎉 Score: /2
Visual Learning Aids
Formality Spectrum
Using 'only if' with friends.
I'll go only if you go.
Standard business emails.
Subject to the following conditions...
Strict legal contracts.
This deed is subject to the following conditions...
Where You'll See This Phrase
Job Offer
Pending background check.
Rental Lease
No pets allowed.
Bank Loan
Proof of income required.
Software Terms
Agreeing to privacy rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsIt means 'dependent on.' If the conditions aren't met, the whole agreement doesn't happen.
Only if you want to sound funny or very serious. For example, I'll go to dinner subject to the following conditions: you pay!
Yes, but much more formal. If is common; subject to the following conditions is for contracts.
Not necessarily, but the word 'conditions' is usually plural even if there is only one rule.
Yes, it is very common in both British and American business English.
Yes, that works perfectly if you have already mentioned the rules.
You will mostly find it at the beginning of a contract or in the middle of a formal offer letter.
It might sound a bit too aggressive for an interviewee to say, but an employer will use it often.
Forgetting the 'the' or using 'for' instead of 'to.' Always say subject to the following conditions.
It is professionally polite. It isn't 'warm,' but it is respectful and clear.
Related Phrases
Provided that
On the condition that something else happens.
Contingent upon
Depending on a specific event or result.
On the condition that
Only if a specific rule is followed.
Pending
Waiting for something to be decided or finished.
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