ISEE/SSAT Vocabulary Builder›Words›D›dictate
ISEE/SSATeasy
dictate
to say or read something aloud for another person to write down, or to give orders
Synonyms
- command
- direct
- order
Antonyms
- obey
- comply
- follow
dictate in a sentence
The manager likes to dictate every decision instead of asking for input.
Rather than listening to suggestions, the coach continued to dictate exactly how each drill should be run.
Where it comes from
From Latin dictare 'to say repeatedly, prescribe'
Memory hook
DICTate — DICT (say, from Latin dicere) — to SAY exactly what must be done.
Word parts
- dict — say, speak
dictate: dict (say) + -ate (to do)
Read it in context
- Seven Beats Together Arts