dictates that

USAGE SUMMARY

"dictates that" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something is an absolute requirement or must be followed. Example: The new immigration policy dictates that all international travelers must quarantine for 14 days before entering the country.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Logic dictates that we follow American advice".

The New York Times

"Realism dictates that compromise will be required, Mr Obama said.

Independent

"Logic dictates that you cannot keep increasing your population forever.

Independent

Geography dictates that Canada's and Mexico's will stay strong.

The Economist

Murphy's Law dictates that 2000 is a leap year.

The Economist

The tango dictates that men lead and women follow.

The New York Times - Arts

Guatemalan law dictates that he cannot seek re-election.

The Guardian

Islamic custom dictates that the sexes be separated.

The New York Times

The 24/7 format almost dictates that you discard nothing".

The New York Times

The hand will be the thing that dictates that".

The New York Times - Sports

Economic necessity dictates that Saudi Arabia reforms now".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "dictates that" to express a non-negotiable requirement or outcome based on a rule, law, or principle. Ensure the context clearly establishes the source of the dictation.

Common error

Avoid using "dictates that" in casual conversation or informal writing where a less assertive phrase would be more appropriate. It is better suited for formal or authoritative settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dictates that" functions as a connector introducing a subordinate clause that specifies a requirement or unavoidable consequence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it correctly establishes a causal relationship, where one thing makes another necessary.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

32%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "dictates that" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to indicate a mandatory requirement or consequence. Ludwig AI validates its proper usage in written English. It is most commonly found in news, scientific, and formal business contexts, suggesting a formal and authoritative tone. When using "dictates that", ensure that the context clearly establishes the source of the dictation and avoid overuse in informal settings. Similar phrases include "stipulates that" and "requires that", each with subtle differences in connotation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

stipulates that

This alternative emphasizes a formal requirement or condition, often found in legal or official contexts.

requires that

This alternative highlights a necessity or obligation, often used in rules or regulations.

mandates that

This alternative conveys a strong and authoritative command or decree.

necessitates that

This alternative suggests that a particular outcome is unavoidable or essential due to certain circumstances.

prescribes that

This alternative implies a specific instruction or recommendation, often in medical or technical contexts.

determines that

This alternative indicates a decisive influence or control over an outcome.

establishes that

This alternative suggests the creation of a rule, standard, or precedent that must be followed.

imposes that

This alternative indicates the enforcement of a rule or obligation.

demands that

This alternative conveys a strong expectation or insistence on a particular action.

legislates that

This alternative implies a formal law or regulation that requires compliance.

FAQs

How can I use "dictates that" in a sentence?

Use "dictates that" to show that a rule, law, or principle makes something necessary. For example, "Company policy dictates that all employees attend the annual training session".

What phrases are similar to "dictates that"?

You can use alternatives like "requires that", "mandates that", or "stipulates that" to convey a similar meaning depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "dictates that" in informal writing?

While grammatically correct, "dictates that" is generally more suitable for formal or professional contexts. In informal writing, consider using less assertive alternatives.

What is the difference between "dictates that" and "indicates that"?

"Dictates that" implies a mandatory or required outcome, while "indicates that" simply suggests or points to a particular conclusion or possibility. The former is a stronger, more assertive phrase.