Dictate

Definition

Dictate refers to giving orders or instructions authoritatively. It can also mean to speak or read aloud for someone else to write down or record. The term is commonly used to describe both verbal commands and the exercise of power or control.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈdɪkˌteɪt/ (verb), /ˈdɪkteɪt/ (noun)
• Respelling: DIK-tayt (verb), DIK-tayt (noun)

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪkˈteɪt/ (verb), /ˈdɪkteɪt/ (noun)
• Respelling: dik-TAYT (verb), DIK-tayt (noun)

The pronunciation of "dictate" is similar in both American and British English, though the verb form may have different emphasis in American English.

Etymology

The word "dictate" comes from the Latin "dictare," meaning "to declare" or "to say often." It is derived from "dicere," meaning "to say." The word entered Middle English in the late 14th century and initially referred to giving authoritative commands or instructions.

Derivatives

• Dictation (noun)
• Dictator (noun)
• Dictatorial (adjective)
• Dictated (verb)
• Dictating (verb)

Synonyms

• Command
• Order
• Direct

Antonyms

• Request
• Suggest
• Follow

Usage

The word "dictate" is used in various contexts. As a verb, it describes issuing orders or reading something aloud for others to write down, such as dictating a letter. In a noun form, it refers to a rule or principle that must be followed, such as the dictates of conscience. It is commonly used in both formal and informal settings.

Related Terms

• Command: To give an authoritative order.
• Decree: An official order issued by a legal authority.
• Instruction: Detailed information on how something should be done or operated.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To give orders or instructions authoritatively: Refers to the act of telling someone what to do in a commanding manner.
  • Example: "He dictated the terms of the agreement to his employees."
• To speak aloud for someone to write down: Describes the process of verbally conveying something that another person records.
  • Example: "She dictated the letter to her assistant."

Noun

• An authoritative rule or principle: Refers to a mandate or requirement that must be followed.
  • Example: "They followed the dictates of their conscience."