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.

The world governing body's standard policy dictates tickets are listed for resale or transferred to another individual rather than refunded, reserving the latter option for exceptional circumstances like match cancellations.

From BBC • May 26, 2026

Tradition dictates that an MP is ceremonially held "hostage" in the palace to ensure the king's safe return.

From Barron's • May 13, 2026

“His first meeting is not going to be one in which he goes in there and dictates policy, or even dictates how they talk about policy,” said Michael Feroli, chief U.S. economist at JPMorgan Chase.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 30, 2026

It makes for an exhausting, agonizing, anxiety-ridden existence that dictates how John exists in public.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 24, 2026

Even as we stand on the street corner, it dictates our destiny.

From "Middlesex: A Novel" by Jeffrey Eugenides