dictate
Translation
to dictate, to order, to prescribe
Examples
She dictated a letter to her assistant.
She dictated a letter to her assistant.
The rules dictate the terms of the agreement.
The rules dictate the terms of the agreement.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.)) ((to sb.)) to say (sth.) aloud for (sb.) to write down She dictated a letter to her assistant.
((sth.)) to state or order (sth.) with authority The rules dictate the terms of the agreement.
Similar Words
Synonyms: command, order, prescribe; Antonyms: follow, obey
Etymology
From Latin 'dictare' (to say, tell), a frequentative of 'dicere' (to say).
Memory Tips
Think of a 'dictator' who 'dictates' or says what everyone must do.