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Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak quote

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

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this dictates that

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this dictates that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is determined or prescribed by a particular condition or rule. Example: "The new policy is strict, and this dictates that all employees must submit their reports by Friday."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Passed by the coalition, this dictates that a referendum must be held on any new EU treaty that shifts power from Westminster to Brussels.

News & Media

The Economist

This dictates that the majority of names on the released lists are seen as surplus to requirements by managers newly aware of the need to comply with Uefa's new financial fair play rules.

This dictates that the international court is only supposed to complement, not supersede, national courts, and so can take up a case only when they are unwilling or unable to do so.

News & Media

The Economist

This dictates that the transistor die must be isolated electrically, and that the requirements to isolate the collector or drain from the heat sink normally dictate the use of an insulating material with good thermal conductivity as the interface between the transistor die and the mounting flange or stud.

This dictates that the Fed not be subject to the shorter term whims of politicians.

News & Media

Forbes

This dictates that when there are two crew, one can leave the cockpit - but only for the absolute minimum time.

News & Media

BBC
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Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

During the PRI's seven decades in power, Mexican foreign policy was governed by the "Estrada doctrine" of non-intervention: named after a former foreign minister, this dictated that Mexico recognise all governments, and criticise none, in the name of national self-determination and sovereignty.

News & Media

The Economist

This law dictates that stardom cannot last longer than three years.

News & Media

The New Yorker

This norm dictates that mothers' parenting should be time-consuming, emotionally absorbing and guided by expert advice.

"However, there is an element of common sense to my policy on this which dictates that since we are there to report on fashion trends, if those trends include fur we will, for instance, show catwalk images that include fur.

It is a perfect example of "The Iron Law of Stardom", formulated by Louis Menand in the New Yorker in 1997, "the law of the three-year limit": "This law dictates that stardom cannot extend for a period greater than three years.

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Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "this dictates that", ensure that the 'this' clearly refers to a specific rule, condition, or circumstance mentioned previously to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "this dictates that" when the referent of 'this' is unclear. Always ensure that the context provides a clear and unambiguous antecedent for 'this' to prevent confusion.

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Source & Trust

86%

Authority and reliability

4.4/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this dictates that" functions as a causal connector, linking a preceding condition or situation to a resulting action or outcome. As shown in Ludwig, it expresses a direct consequence or requirement. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

30%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "this dictates that" is a grammatically sound and useful phrase for establishing a cause-and-effect relationship, as validated by Ludwig. It's most commonly found in news, scientific, and business contexts, indicating a neutral to formal register. The phrase signifies a direct consequence or requirement, making it essential to ensure clarity in referencing 'this'. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct, and alternatives like "this necessitates that" or "this requires that" can be used to subtly alter the meaning. When using "this dictates that", make sure to clearly define what "this" refers to.

FAQs

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

Use "this dictates that" to show a direct consequence or requirement resulting from a specific condition or rule. For example, "The company policy is strict, and "this dictates that" all reports must be submitted on time".

What are some alternatives to "this dictates that"?

You can use phrases like "this requires that", "this necessitates that", or "this mandates that" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "this dictates that" or "this implies that"?

"This dictates that" suggests a direct and enforced consequence, while "this implies that" suggests a more indirect or suggestive result. Choose the phrase that best reflects the strength of the relationship you are describing.

What is the difference between "this stipulates that" and "this dictates that"?

"This stipulates that" is typically used in the context of agreements or contracts to specify particular terms or conditions, whereas "this dictates that" is used more broadly to indicate a requirement or consequence stemming from a rule or condition.

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Source & Trust

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Authority and reliability

4.4/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences: