dictates

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.

Protocol dictates that it is unconventional to touch a member of the royal family.

From Barron's • May 1, 2026

The U.K. government can deploy the king abroad to woo foreign governments, but convention dictates politicians cannot embarrass the monarch.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 30, 2026

This system dictates that fixed salaries are tied to specific draft positions, meaning a higher draft pick results in a more lucrative overall contract and a larger signing bonus.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 23, 2026

Drivers say the fine print on the offers dictates which card they use and where they fill up gas, making it difficult for them to save money.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 18, 2026

But these women, many of whom had no education and who were brought up to follow the dictates of their religious leaders, were frightened.

From "Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Changed the World" by Malala Yousafzai