Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for dictate.
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.

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

We’re living in a world where your purchase history, browsing speed and even your ZIP code increasingly dictate the cost of your life.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 1, 2026

But the laws of football's ecosystem dictate that without action the club could fall further behind.

From BBC • Mar. 23, 2026

She said their decision-making is “just as reckless as letting a group of amateur pilots dictate how our airplanes should fly.”

From Salon • Mar. 18, 2026

For instance, the speed at which a device delivers information can dictate how drawn we are to it.

From "A Deadly Wandering: A Mystery, a Landmark Investigation, and the Astonishing Science of Attention in the Digital Age" by Matt Richtel