dictating terms

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "dictating terms" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of imposing conditions or requirements in a negotiation or agreement. Example: "In the final stages of the negotiation, the company was in a position of power, dictating terms that favored their interests."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

Quick to the ball and just as quick to punish it, he was dictating terms to Ferrer, a man who usually takes dictation, crumples it up and turns it into another grinding rally.

The New York Times - Sports

You can't have the army dictating terms to the government.

The New York Times

In theory, it should be telling Google how to run it, and even dictating terms.

The Guardian - Tech

Here too, physical geography matters less than dictating terms over population centres.

The Guardian

Cameron wasn't a top toff dictating terms: he was a needy lad, too.

The Guardian

According to one central source: "Nobody is in charge, nobody is dictating terms.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

Some donors were able to dictate terms.

The New York Times - Arts

As the buyer, AOL felt entitled to dictate terms.

The New York Times

Again they attempted to dictate terms and failed miserably.

The Guardian - Sport

But he added: "Russia cannot dictate terms to them.

The Guardian

The government is in no position to dictate terms.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "dictating terms" when you want to convey that one party has significant power or control in a negotiation or situation, often to the disadvantage of others. For a neutral tone, consider alternatives like "setting conditions".

Common error

Avoid using "dictating terms" in contexts where collaboration or mutual agreement is emphasized. It implies an imbalance of power and can sound overly assertive or negative when a cooperative approach is more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dictating terms" functions as a verb phrase, often used with a subject and object, to describe the act of imposing conditions or controlling the parameters of an agreement or situation. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Formal & Business

15%

Sports

7%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "dictating terms" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe a situation where one party imposes conditions on another. Ludwig AI confirms this. It's frequently used in news, business, and sports contexts to highlight power dynamics. While generally neutral, it leans towards professional and carries a slightly assertive tone. Consider alternatives like "setting conditions" for a more neutral connotation. Be mindful of the potential negative implication when using it in collaborative settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

imposing conditions

Focuses on the act of setting specific requirements.

setting the agenda

Emphasizes the control over what is discussed and decided.

calling the shots

Highlights the ability to make important decisions and give orders.

laying down the law

Implies a forceful assertion of rules or demands.

having the upper hand

Indicates an advantage that allows one to control the situation.

taking the reins

Suggests assuming control and direction.

being in control

Highlights the state of managing and directing a situation.

imposing one's will

Focuses on enforcing one's desires or decisions.

calling the tune

Indicates the power to influence or control events.

determining the course of action

Emphasizes the power to decide on a strategic path.

FAQs

How can I use "dictating terms" in a sentence?

You can use "dictating terms" to describe a situation where one party is imposing conditions on another. For example, "The company was "dictating terms" that favored their interests during the negotiation."

What are some alternatives to "dictating terms"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "setting conditions", "imposing requirements", or "calling the shots".

Is it more appropriate to say "dictating terms" or "setting conditions"?

"Dictating terms" implies a stronger imbalance of power and potentially negative implications, whereas "setting conditions" is more neutral. Choose based on the intended tone and context.

When is it inappropriate to use "dictating terms"?

It's inappropriate when describing a collaborative situation where all parties have equal input. "Dictating terms" suggests a lack of collaboration and can be seen as imposing.