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Definitions

dictate

[dik-teyt, dik-teyt, dik-teyt] / ˈdɪk teɪt, dɪkˈteɪt, ˈdɪk teɪt /






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.

Tyler is one of those conversation-piece characters—think Godot in “Waiting for Godot,” Sonny Jim in “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” and the men in “The Women”—who never appear, yet dictate the plot.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 28, 2026

I couldn’t dictate it beyond my initial outline thoughts, because I find that I can’t replicate my best writing voice while speaking into a phone or computer.

From Slate • May 24, 2026

We will add positions as our indicators dictate.

From MarketWatch • May 14, 2026

Sargent later repainted Gautreau with both straps fixed to her shoulders — a needless compromise between the artist and those who wielded the power to dictate beauty.

From Salon • May 6, 2026

The mores of suburbia now dictate that crabgrass must go at whatever cost.

From "Silent Spring" by Rachel Carson




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