dictate
verb (used with object)
to say or read (something) aloud for another person to transcribe or for a machine to record.
dictates
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pluralof dictate.plural
The grammatical form denoting more than one person, place, thing, or idea.
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present tense formof dictate (3rd person singular).present tense
Used to describe things happening now or regularly.
dictateverb (used with object)to say or read (something) aloud for another person to transcribe or for a machine to record.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
It would certainly be the easy way out, the continuation of a downsizing effort already in progress following one of the dictates of retirement—less stuff, more experiences.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 1, 2026
For now, the strategists say the “summer consensus” that dictates buying assets that are perceived as riskier, such as stocks, is still in place.
From MarketWatch ● Aug. 28, 2026
Even when intergalactic forces take pains to make the Lantern Corps’ selection process fair, Earth’s unspoken dictates about worthiness make that impossible.
From Salon ● Aug. 14, 2026
“Because the passions of men will not conform to the dictates of reason and justice, without constraint.”
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 30, 2026
It appears to mean serving the dictates of greed and advantage rather than those of goodness and the desire to see justice prevail in the world.
From "The Remains of the Day" by Kazuo Ishiguro
