What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
provision
Example
The ship had enough provisions to last the crew for several weeks. [provisions: noun]
Example
The company made provisions for the employees' retirement benefits. [provisions: noun]
stock
Example
The store has a large stock of winter coats available for purchase. [stock: noun]
Example
She invested in the company's stock and saw a significant return on her investment. [stock: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Stock is more commonly used than provision in everyday language, especially in a business or financial context. Provision is less common and is typically used in emergency or contingency planning situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between provision and stock?
Both provision and stock can be used in formal or informal contexts, but stock is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of contexts, including casual conversation and everyday language.