Synonyms for dictate
- verb
- noun
Definitions
- v. 1
To order, command, control.
Etiquette dictates that wedding invitations should be acknowledged in writing.
- n. 1
An order or command.
I must obey the dictates of my conscience.
Related words
- Word family
- dictation dictator dictatress dictatrix
Example sentences
- rule There are cases where the rule does not hold good.
- require I require absolute loyalty from all my employees.
- prescribe It's an inflammation. I'll prescribe you antibiotics.
- instruct Please instruct the patient to visit a clinician.
- domineer He tried unsuccessfully to domineer over his office workers.
Popularity over time
| Word | 1850 → 2019 | Trend |
|---|---|---|
| dictate | steady | |
| rule | steady | |
| require | steady | |
| prescribe | falling | |
| instruct | steady | |
| domineer | steady |
Use in printed books, per decade from 1850 to 2019.
By length
- 3 letters
- say1, law1, bid1
- 4 letters
- rule1
- 5 letters
- order2, utter2, maxim2, edict2
- 6 letters
- direct2, decree2, ordain2, enjoin2
- 7 letters
- require3, command2, declare2, appoint2, precept2
- 8 letters
- instruct2, domineer3
- 9 letters
- prescribe2, dictation3, dictatory
- 10 letters
- injunction3
- 12 letters
- prescription3
The small number after each word is its number of syllables (order2 = 2 syllables).