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Definition dictate in British English

dictate verb

verb
/dɪkˈteɪt/

▪ circumstances, custom, fashion, logic, sense

1

to influence or control how something is done

Example

Their choice was dictated by political circumstances.

Example

Common sense dictates that we approach her with caution.

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2

to tell someone exactly what to do and how to behave

Example

Washington is in no position to dictate terms to Moscow.

Example

Don't try to dictate what I read.

Synonyms and related words
3

to say the words of a document that someone else will write or type for you

Example

I have letters to dictate to my secretary before I leave.

Synonyms and related words
Definition dictate in British English