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Definitions

dictate

[dik-teyt, dik-teyt, dik-teyt] / ˈdɪk teɪt, dɪkˈteɪt, ˈdɪk teɪt /
NOUN
command; rule
Synonyms
STRONGEST
edict precept
STRONG
behest bidding code decree dictum direction fiat injunction law mandate order ordinance principle requirement statute ultimatum word
Antonyms
STRONG
answer lawlessness question
WEAK
request
VERB
command; give instructions
Synonyms
STRONGEST
govern guide impose lay down prescribe
STRONG
bid bulldoze charge control decree direct enjoin instruct lead manage ordain order pronounce regiment rule set
WEAK
call the play call the shots call the tune lay down the law put foot down read the riot act take the reins walk heavy
Antonyms
STRONG
disallow mismanage
WEAK
ask implore request
VERB
read out for the record
Synonyms
STRONGEST
speak
STRONG
compose deliver emit formulate interview orate say talk transmit utter verbalize
WEAK
draft correspondence give account give forth prepare draft
Antonyms
STRONG
conceal refrain withhold
WEAK
ask implore request

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Mizuho analyst Ben Chaiken wrote in a note to clients that oil prices would likely dictate investor sentiment around the cruise industry, and said travel from North America to Europe remained a risk.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 8, 2026

“In both situations, the way I remember it is the team that was able to dictate with their defense, get enough stops, win the rebounding battle, came out on top.”

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 5, 2026

He's going to dictate his own time and terms.

From BBC • Apr. 1, 2026

Transit times, determined by distance from the Middle East, dictate how the shock spreads through the global system, said Michael Haigh, head of commodities research at Société Générale.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 1, 2026

Apart from very short notes, it was usual to dictate everything into the speakwrite, which was of course impossible for his present purpose.

From "1984" by George Orwell