dictating

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.

The company’s scientific approach, called epigenetic reprogramming, works by altering DNA markings and dictating which genes a cell uses.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 2, 2026

As supply constraints in the Middle East ripple across regions, pricing dynamics are dictating where the pinch hits hardest.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 23, 2026

“Ultimately, the current geopolitical tensions will remain the dominant narrative driving oil markets over the short term, dictating trading dynamics in the days ahead.”

From Barron's • Mar. 3, 2026

A growing number of software developers in Silicon Valley are dictating coding instructions for hours at a time instead of typing.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 29, 2026

The house was taking over again, and dictating to him about what he must feel and do.

From "I'm the King of the Castle" by Susan Hill