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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.

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

He's going to dictate his own time and terms.

From BBC • Apr. 1, 2026

Leading AI developers believe that we’re a couple years away from transformative AI that will completely reshape the world and dictate the course of future events.

From Salon • Mar. 23, 2026

Lawyers already are barred under the State Bar’s rules from allowing a third party to dictate case strategy and are barred in many cases from sharing legal fees with a nonlawyer.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 17, 2026

I wanted to dictate my own thrilling letters.

From "The Bell Jar" by Sylvia Plath

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.