that dictates

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that dictates" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to something that determines or controls a particular outcome or behavior. Example: "The policy that dictates our approach to customer service is essential for maintaining client satisfaction."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"Because the first thing that dictates the trend is interests.

The New Yorker

The hand will be the thing that dictates that".

The New York Times - Sports

Remember: it's not the weather that dictates the wine so much as the food.

The New York Times - Food

"There is a political reality that dictates the debate on women's rights," she added.

The New York Times

So that Republican 'we' is a narrow one that dictates some very sharp policies.

The New Yorker

The Democratic one is a big, messy, inclusive one that dictates fuzzy policies.

The New Yorker

And it is audience interest (or lack of interest) that dictates decisions made by editors.

The Guardian

In this, she is following a country music tradition that dictates strong contact with fans.

The Guardian - Music

It is the lay of the land that dictates the tours.

The New York Times

He called for a radical revision of the tronc system that dictates how tips are distributed.

The Guardian - Business

This means the 60-day timetable that dictates how City takeovers play out is now ticking.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "that dictates", ensure the subject clearly exerts control or influence over the object. For example, "The budget that dictates our project's scope is under review."

Common error

Avoid using "that dictates" when the subject does not actively control or influence the outcome. For example, instead of saying "The weather that dictates our plans," consider "The weather that affects our plans" if the weather merely influences rather than commands the plans.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that dictates" functions as a relative clause, modifying a noun by specifying its controlling or determining influence over a subsequent action, condition, or outcome. Ludwig AI validates its appropriate use.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

36%

News & Media

44%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "that dictates" functions as a relative clause expressing control or determination, commonly found in news media and scientific contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely used. When writing, ensure the subject actively exerts control. For increased precision, consider alternatives like "that determines" or "that governs" to better reflect the intended level of influence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that determines

Emphasizes the act of definitively deciding or establishing something, focusing on the outcome.

that governs

Suggests a rule-based control or management, often implying authority and regulation.

that controls

Highlights the power to direct or restrain something, indicating a more forceful influence.

that influences

Indicates a subtle or indirect effect on something, suggesting a less forceful control.

that shapes

Focuses on the act of molding or forming something, implying a creative or developmental influence.

that prescribes

Implies a set rule or direction, suggesting an action is required to meet an specific goal.

that establishes

Highlights the act of setting up a firm foundation or basis for something, focusing on creation or inception.

that commands

Implies authority and control over an action or direction.

that regulates

Indicates the control of a process or activity by means of rules or guidelines, suggesting a structured approach.

that leads to

Emphasizes the cause-and-effect relationship, focusing on the result or outcome of something.

FAQs

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

Use "that dictates" to show that something determines or controls an outcome. For example, "The law "that dictates" the terms of the contract is under review".

What are some alternatives to "that dictates"?

Alternatives include "that determines", "that governs", or "that controls" depending on the level of influence you want to convey.

Is it correct to use "that dictates" in formal writing?

Yes, "that dictates" is appropriate for formal writing. It clearly conveys the idea that something has significant control or influence over something else.

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

"That dictates" implies a stronger, more decisive control, while "that influences" suggests a more subtle or indirect effect. Use "that dictates" when something directly determines the outcome.