LawMeaning

Express Condition

In one sentence

A requirement clearly stated in a contract that must happen for obligations to arise.

Plain English

An express condition is something the parties explicitly write into their contract as a requirement. It's the opposite of something implied or assumed—it's right there in black and white. If an express condition doesn't happen, the other party typically doesn't have to perform their part of the deal. For example, a contract might say 'I will buy your car IF you provide a clean title'—the clean title is an express condition.

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Example

A construction contract states that the builder will begin work only IF the owner obtains financing approval by March 1st. If the owner doesn't get financing approval by that date, the express condition fails, and the builder has no obligation to start work.

Used in a sentence

“The employment offer included an express condition that the candidate had to pass a background check before starting.”

Related terms

Constructive Condition
A requirement implied by law that must be satisfied before a party's duty to perform arises.
Implied Condition
A requirement not written in a contract but understood to be part of the deal.
Standard Form Agreement
A pre-printed contract with fixed terms used repeatedly by one party for many transactions.
Illusory Promise
A promise that appears binding but actually gives one party the power to escape it.
Legality
The requirement that a contract's purpose must be lawful and not forbidden by law.
Bargain
An exchange where each party gives something of value in return for something else of value.
Offer
A proposal to enter into a binding agreement on specific terms.
Acceptance
Agreeing to the exact terms of an offer, creating a binding contract.

This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change over time. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney.