dictate

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "dictate" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation in which someone or something has control or power over a particular situation or thing. For example, "The government's strict regulations dictate what types of materials can be used for the construction of new buildings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Unlike those on Qeshm, Hormuz island inhabitants are in no way wealthy, and so it will be capital brought from outside the island that will dictate the rules.

The Guardian

Instead of a party henchman we now have a pragmatist in charge of the delicate relationship between central and local government, a relationship that will dictate how the crisis is solved.

The Guardian

"They're a very physical team, they like to try and dictate the tempo.

The Guardian - Sport

"The choice is symbolic: the Likud led by me, that will continue to stand firmly for [Israel's] vital interests, compared with a leftwing government... ready to accept any dictate," he told residents.

The Guardian

Convictions under the laws, section 60 of the criminal code, dictate compulsory jail time for bikies not only gathering in public but also attending clubhouses or recruiting.

The Guardian

But he who pays the piper must dictate the tune, and the delta has been paying the piper for so very long.

The Guardian

It is neither my place nor my intention to dictate to anyone who they are allowed to love or live with".

The Guardian - Opinion

The FBI rules, laid out in the FBI's Domestic Investigations and Operations Guide, dictate that special care should be taken over sensitive investigations such as those targeting elected officials, journalists and political organisations.

The Guardian

Tozser began to dictate proceedings in midfield and after the break almost added a second with a free-kick that scraped Stockdale's bar.

The Guardian - Sport

Brandis explicitly said if he was not satisfied with a new policy drafted by the council then he would dictate it himself.

The Guardian

Kaletsky thinks the president, whose power is waxing, can now "dictate the broad terms of a budgetary truce" to Republicans, and that "the approaching budget and debt negotiations should prove surprisingly consensual and calm".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "dictate", ensure the context clearly indicates who or what is exerting control or giving commands. For instance, "Market trends dictate consumer behavior" provides a clear understanding of the influencing factor.

Common error

Avoid using "dictate" in passive voice when it obscures the agent of control. Instead of saying "It is dictated that...", specify who or what is dictating to maintain clarity and strength in your writing.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "dictate" is as a verb, indicating the act of commanding, controlling, or speaking for transcription. Ludwig AI indicates that it aligns with standard grammar rules. Examples show its active use in various sentence structures.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "dictate" is a versatile verb with the primary meaning of commanding, controlling, or speaking for transcription. Ludwig AI confirms that it's grammatically correct and widely used. It frequently appears in contexts such as News & Media and Formal & Business writing, indicating its relevance in conveying authority and influence. When using "dictate", ensure clarity about who or what is exerting control and avoid passive voice constructions that obscure the agent. By understanding its nuances and common usage patterns, writers can effectively use "dictate" to convey precise meanings in their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

read out loud for transcription

Specifically relates to the act of speaking for someone to write down.

speak for recording

Refers to speaking with the intention of being recorded.

prescribe

Emphasizes a set of guidelines or actions that must be followed.

lay down

Focuses on establishing rules or commands authoritatively.

issue orders

Highlights the act of giving commands.

determine

Highlights the power to decide or control an outcome.

set the terms

Focuses on establishing the conditions or rules.

control

Stresses the power to manage or direct something.

govern

Implies ruling or managing with authority.

ordain

Indicates establishing something by law or divine will.

FAQs

How can I use "dictate" in a sentence?

You can use "dictate" to show that something or someone has control over something else. For example, "The terms of the contract "dictate" the payment schedule."

What's the difference between "dictate" and "suggest"?

"Dictate" implies control or authority, whereas "suggest" offers a recommendation. If something "dictates" an outcome, it determines it. If it suggests an outcome, it merely proposes it.

What can I say instead of "dictate"?

You can use alternatives like "determine", "prescribe", or "control" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say 'circumstances dictate that'?

Yes, it is correct. "Circumstances "dictate" that" is a common expression used to show that the situation necessitates a particular course of action.