dictate

/dik'teit/

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Explanation of the Word "Dictate"

Part of Speech:
- Verb
- Noun

Usage Instructions:

• When using "dictate" as a verb, it often involves someone speaking while another person writes or types what is being said.
• As a noun, it is often used in formal or academic contexts to refer to rules or principles.

Examples:

1. Verb Example:

   • "The manager will dictate the new policy to her assistant."

2. Noun Example:

   • "We must follow the dictates of safety regulations in the workplace."

Advanced Usage:

• In more advanced contexts, "dictate" can refer to the influence of external factors on decision-making. For example, "The economic situation will dictate our investment strategy."

Word Variants:

• Dictation (noun): The act of dictating; the written record of what has been dictated.

  • Example: "I took dictation from my boss during the meeting."

• Dictator (noun): A leader who has absolute power, often ruling oppressively.

  • Example: "The country was ruled by a dictator for many years."

Different Meanings:

• Dictate in a General Sense: To control or determine how something happens.

  • Example: "The weather can dictate our travel plans."

• In a Legal Context: Dictate can also refer to a formal order or command issued by authority.

Synonyms:

• Command
• Order
• Direct
• Control
• Prescribe

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• "Dictate terms": To set the conditions or rules for a situation.

  • Example: "The negotiation will be tough, but we need to dictate terms that favor our company."

• "Let the dictates of your heart guide you": To follow your feelings or intuition rather than strict rules or logic.

Summary

"Dictate" is a versatile word that can be used in both everyday language and more formal contexts.

Academic

Noun

1. a guiding principle
   • the dictates of reason
2. an authoritative rule

Verb

1. rule as a dictator
2. say out loud for the purpose of recording
   • He dictated a report to his secretary
3. issue commands or orders for

Synonyms

• order
• prescribe