Condition
kənˈdɪʃən
Definitions
4 meaningsThe state of something, especially concerning its appearance, quality, or working order.
kənˈdɪʃən
A state of being or existence.
The house was in excellent condition.
💡 Simply: Imagine your car. Is it shiny and new, or a little beat up? The condition is how good or bad something is. Like, 'The old book was in good condition' - it wasn't torn or damaged!
👶 For kids: How something is! Like, 'The cat's fur is in good condition.'
More Examples
The economic condition of the country is improving.
She was in no condition to drive after drinking alcohol.
How It's Used
"The patient's condition improved after the surgery."
"The terms and conditions of the contract were clearly stated."
"The weather conditions were unfavorable for the flight."
A requirement or stipulation, especially as part of an agreement.
kənˈdɪʃən
A requirement or stipulation.
The conditions for entry to the competition were clearly stated.
💡 Simply: A rule you must follow. Like, when your parents say 'You can go out, *but* you have to clean your room first!' The 'but' part is the condition.
👶 For kids: A rule you have to follow. Like, 'You can have dessert, but you have to eat your veggies first!'
More Examples
There was a condition in the will regarding the distribution of assets.
The loan was granted on the condition that the borrower provided a guarantor.
How It's Used
"One of the conditions of the loan was that he had to provide collateral."
"The contract is void if any of the conditions are not met."
"They set the condition that all members attend the meeting."
To bring (something) into the desired state for a particular purpose; train or accustom.
kənˈdɪʃən
To influence or determine the way someone or something behaves or develops.
The athlete conditioned himself to run long distances.
💡 Simply: To train or get something ready. Like, 'The coach conditioned the team to win.' Or, 'I conditioned my hair to be soft with a special treatment.'
👶 For kids: To train or get ready. Like, 'The dog was conditioned to sit.'
More Examples
Advertisements condition us to want certain products.
The environment we grow up in can condition our behavior.
How It's Used
"Pavlov's experiments conditioned dogs to salivate at the sound of a bell."
"The athlete conditioned his body for the marathon."
"Their upbringing conditioned them to be independent."
To improve the quality of something.
kənˈdɪʃən
To make something better or suitable for use.
He conditioned the leather boots to make them more supple.
💡 Simply: To make something better. Like, 'The hairdresser conditioned my hair to make it shiny.' Or, 'I need to condition the soil before planting the seeds'
👶 For kids: To make something better. Like, 'I condition my hair to make it soft.'
More Examples
The air conditioner conditions the air in the room.
The conditioner is designed to condition and nourish the hair.
How It's Used
"She conditioned her hair with a deep treatment."
"The farmer conditioned the soil before planting."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
in good condition
Being in a state of good repair or quality.
"The antique car was surprisingly in good condition."
on condition that
Provided that; if.
"I will go to the party on condition that you come with me."
terms and conditions
The rules and agreements that define a service or contract.
"Make sure you read the terms and conditions before signing up for the service."
From Middle French *condicion*, from Latin *condicio* ('agreement, stipulation, condition'), from *condicere* ('to agree upon, stipulate').
The word 'condition' has been used since the 14th century, initially referring to a state of being. Its usage evolved to encompass stipulations and requirements over time.
Memory tip
Think of the state your car is in. Is it in good condition?
Word Origin
"agreement, stipulation, condition"