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.

Hofmann said, “It is not the form that dictates the color, but the color that brings out the form.”

From The Wall Street Journal • May 23, 2026

This can take a year or more, as state law dictates a fair opportunity for any creditors to make claims.

From MarketWatch • May 21, 2026

One feature of UK energy prices is that the price of gas often dictates the price of electricity, as gas-fired power stations are often the bit of energy that helps supply meet demand.

From BBC • May 13, 2026

"However, the time has come to focus our efforts on what our national interest dictates."

From Barron's • Apr. 28, 2026

The raga dictates how each note should be used, more specifically than a modal or major-minor system does.

From "Understanding Basic Music Theory" by Catherine Schmidt-Jones and Russel Jones