Meaning & Definition of word "Dictate"

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    Dictate

    /ˈdɪk.teɪt/

    noun:

    • 1. An authoritative order or command.
      • Example: The general issued a dictate that all troops must report by dawn.
    • 2. A guiding principle or requirement.
      • Example: The dictate of fairness guided their decision-making process.

    verb:

    • 1. To say or read (something) aloud for another person to transcribe or to make a recording of.
      • Example: The manager decided to dictate a memo for the assistant to type up.
    • 2. To prescribe or lay down authoritatively; to determine with authority.
      • Example: The terms of the contract will dictate how the project will proceed.
    • 3. To control or influence something in a significant way.
      • Example: Economic conditions can dictate the success of a business.

    Etymology

    Late Middle English: from Latin 'dictare', frequentative of 'dicere' 'to say'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    dictate terms:

    To specify the conditions under which something will happen.

    to dictate to someone:

    To give orders or instructions to someone.

    Related Words

    dictation:

    The action of saying words aloud to be transcribed.

    dictatorial:

    Of or typical of a ruler with total power.

    Slang Meanings of dictate

    Meaning: To take control or have the final say.

    Example Sentence: He's got the final dictate on this project.