What does "substantially as follows" mean in the context of contract provisions?

The phrase "substantially as follows" in the context of contract provisions suggests that while the essential content or framework of the provision remains intact, there is allowance for variations to accommodate specific needs or situations. This phrase provides flexibility—enabling parties to modify certain aspects of the provision while retaining its core intent and purpose.

In contracting, this language is often used to signal that while the parties are committing to a certain meaning or structure, they recognize that practical realities may necessitate some adjustments that do not fundamentally alter the overall agreement. This contrasts with more rigid terms that would require strict adherence without any deviations. The use of "substantially" thus promotes a balance between maintaining the integrity of the original terms and allowing adaptability to the unique circumstances that may arise in the execution of the contract.