C1verb2K

UK/["/dɪkˈteɪt/","/dɪkˈteɪts/","/dɪkˈteɪtɪd/","/dɪkˈteɪtɪŋ/"]/US/["/ˈdɪkteɪt/","/ˈdɪkteɪts/","/ˈdɪkteɪtɪd/","/ˈdɪkteɪtɪŋ/"]/

Meaning of Dictate

to tell somebody what to do, especially in an annoying way

In simple words: To say something aloud so someone can write it down.

Dictate in a sentence

  • The teacher asked the student to dictate the paragraph so she could write it down.
  • The CEO tends to dictate the company's strategy without consulting others.
  • In a traditional office, a manager might dictate letters to their secretary.
  • External factors often dictate how a business operates in the market.
  • She dictated the terms of the agreement clearly to avoid confusion.

How to use Dictate

Often used in formal settings, like offices or schools. Not commonly used in casual conversation.

Grammar pattern

dictate + object

Memory hint

Imagine a king dictating orders from a throne, making it sound powerful.

Related words

Collocations with Dictate

  • dictate terms
  • dictate a letter
  • dictate instructions
  • dictate terms of agreement

Synonyms for Dictate

Opposites of Dictate

Common mistakes with Dictate

  • Confused with 'dictation' as a noun.
  • Using it in informal situations where 'tell' is more appropriate.
  • Assuming it only refers to speaking loudly.

Dictate appears in

Dictate in other languages

More words like Dictate

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Frequently asked questions about Dictate

What does Dictate mean?

To say something aloud so someone can write it down.

What is the definition of Dictate?

to tell somebody what to do, especially in an annoying way

How do you use Dictate in a sentence?

The teacher asked the student to dictate the paragraph so she could write it down.

Can you give another example of Dictate?

The CEO tends to dictate the company's strategy without consulting others.

What are synonyms for Dictate?

Common alternatives include determine.

What is the opposite of Dictate?

Opposite meanings include follow, obey, submit.

What words go with Dictate?

It commonly pairs with dictate terms, dictate a letter, dictate instructions, dictate terms of agreement.

What are common mistakes when using Dictate?

Confused with 'dictation' as a noun. Using it in informal situations where 'tell' is more appropriate. Assuming it only refers to speaking loudly.

How do you pronounce Dictate?

US: /["/ˈdɪkteɪt/","/ˈdɪkteɪts/","/ˈdɪkteɪtɪd/","/ˈdɪkteɪtɪŋ/"]/, UK: /["/dɪkˈteɪt/","/dɪkˈteɪts/","/dɪkˈteɪtɪd/","/dɪkˈteɪtɪŋ/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Dictate?

Often used in formal settings, like offices or schools. Not commonly used in casual conversation.

What CEFR level is Dictate?

"Dictate" is at C1 level on the CEFR scale.