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.

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

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

The U.K. government can deploy the king abroad to woo foreign governments, but convention dictates politicians cannot embarrass the monarch.

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

It is only September and it is still hot in Paintbrush Falls, even if we are pretty far north, but Killer Man has decided, I guess, that the season dictates gray flannel.

From "The Misfits" by James Howe