dictate
verb (used with object)
to say or read (something) aloud for another person to transcribe or for a machine to record.
have dictated
-
present perfectof dictate.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
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.
"Circumstances beyond our control, but more importantly, circumstances beyond Nick's control have dictated that, sadly, it's made it impossible for us to continue our representation of Nick," he said.
From Barron's ● Feb. 23, 2026
For decades, weather and school calendars have dictated when families travel.
From MarketWatch ● Nov. 3, 2025
The CFTC's complaint said that Binance personnel, including Zhao, have "dictated Binance.US's corporate strategy, launch, and early operations."
From Reuters ● Mar. 29, 2023
Jennifer Bergstrom, the publisher of the Simon & Schuster imprint Gallery, said they paid “millions” more for a book by the comedian Amy Schumer than the sales estimates would have dictated.
From New York Times ● Aug. 19, 2022
However, this “law” can hardly have dictated his choice of green to stand for the girl’s psyche.
From "History of Art, Volume 1" by H.W. Janson
