he decreed that

USAGE SUMMARY

"he decreed that" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It is often used to introduce a statement or ruling made by someone in a position of authority. Example: "The king decreed that all citizens must pay a new tax to fund the construction of a new palace." In this sentence, "he decreed that" introduces the king's decision or declaration. Other examples of using this phrase may include: - "The judge decreed that the defendant must pay a fine and serve six months in prison." - "The CEO decreed that all employees must attend a mandatory training session next week." - "The president decreed that a new trade agreement would be negotiated with foreign partners." In each of these examples, "he decreed that" is used to introduce a decree or ruling made by someone in authority. It can also be used in personal contexts, such as "my father decreed that we must finish all our homework before dinner." This phrase adds a formal tone to the sentence and implies that the decision being made is final and must be followed.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

He decreed that the theatre should remain shut until Argentina's bicentennial celebrations in May 2010.

The Economist

He decreed that deportees who returned to Russia would be shot.

The Economist

When Chen returned to China, he decreed that Beijing motorists do the same.

The New Yorker

He decreed that reporters covering him would have to wear a jackal press badge.

The New York Times

A perfectionist, he decreed that the imperfect manuscript should never be published.

The Guardian - Opinion

He decreed that Monday and Tuesday would be nationwide days of mourning.

The New York Times

He decreed that the slogan for the new year, 1391, should be "National Production and Supporting Iranian Labor and Capital".

The New York Times

In a Moscow synod he decreed that all Latin Christians coming into the Russian Orthodox church must be rebaptized.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In 1978, he decreed that all school uniforms were to be purchased from a company owned by his wife.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

He took one look and decreed that surgery was necessary.

Independent

I only await the Vaughan Ultimatum where he decrees that he'll refuse to play anymore if those nasty bowlers keep saving all their best deliveries for him".

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "he decreed that", ensure the subject has genuine authority or power to make such a declaration. It adds weight and formality to the statement.

Common error

Avoid using "he decreed that" for trivial or informal situations. It's best suited for scenarios where the subject possesses legitimate power or influence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "he decreed that" serves as a reporting clause, introducing a formal statement, order, or decision made by an individual with authority. Ludwig examples demonstrate usage in news and encyclopedic contexts, reflecting authoritative pronouncements.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Encyclopedias

27%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Science & Research

6%

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "he decreed that" is a common and grammatically correct construction used to introduce a formal order, ruling, or decision made by an authority figure. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and prevalence, highlighting its frequent appearance in news and encyclopedic sources. Related phrases like "he ordered that" or "he ruled that" offer similar meanings but carry slightly different connotations. When using this phrase, it's important to ensure the subject genuinely possesses the authority to issue such a decree to maintain credibility. Avoid employing this phrase in trivial contexts; its strength lies in formally and weightily reporting decisions made by people with power.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

he ordered that

This alternative suggests a direct command, often implying a more immediate or forceful action.

he ruled that

This phrase indicates a legal or authoritative judgment, typically in a formal setting.

he proclaimed that

This suggests a public and formal announcement, often of significant importance.

he stipulated that

This alternative implies setting a specific condition or requirement as part of an agreement or law.

he mandated that

This phrase emphasizes the compulsory nature of the order, often backed by legal or official power.

he ordained that

This suggests a formal or religious decree, often carrying significant moral or spiritual weight.

he dictated that

This implies an absolute and often authoritarian imposition of a rule or decision.

he directed that

Suggests providing instructions or guidance on a specific matter.

he passed a law stating that

This alternative specifies the action as a legislative process, resulting in a formal law.

he laid down that

This phrase suggests setting a rule or principle, often with a sense of finality or authority.

FAQs

How can I use "he decreed that" in a sentence?

Use "he decreed that" to introduce a formal order, law, or decision made by someone in a position of authority. For example, "The emperor decreed that all citizens must attend the festival".

What are some alternatives to "he decreed that"?

You can use alternatives like "he ordered that", "he ruled that", or "he proclaimed that" depending on the specific context.

Is "he decreed that" formal or informal?

"He decreed that" is considered a formal phrase. It's best suited for official or historical contexts rather than casual conversation.

What's the difference between "he decreed that" and "he suggested that"?

"He decreed that" implies a command or formal declaration, while "he suggested that" implies a recommendation or proposal that may or may not be followed. The former carries authority, the latter does not.