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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.

The federal agency will then dictate how many police and federal agents will flood those zones, which include the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, Exposition Park and Crypto.com Arena.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 9, 2026

That order can now dictate the flow of oil, as well as that of fertilizer ahead of the planting season and critical components in the artificial-intelligence race.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 9, 2026

The rules dictate that power-unit manufacturers must supply to their customers engines of exactly the same specification as those used by the works team.

From BBC • Apr. 7, 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

“In Islam there is no compulsion in religion. One person does not have the right to dictate how another believes or lives.”

From "Shooting Kabul" by N. H. Senzai