dictate
/ˈdɪkˌteɪt/
Group 14Difficulty 1/3
Definitions
- (verb)
- To lay down authoritatively; to prescribe GRE
- (noun)
- An order or principle that must be obeyed GRE
Example in Context
Market forces rather than government policy will ultimately dictate the pace and direction of the energy transition.
Synonyms
commandorderdirect
Etymology
To make clear what one says, laying down the law authoritatively.
- dic- (Latin) — to say
- tate (Latin) — to make
Memory Aid
📜Sounds like “dict ate”
A tyrant who DICTATED his rules while EATING a scroll — he really wanted to 'dict-ate'!
Visual Association
📖A fierce ruler sitting on a throne, commanding a scribe to write down his every word.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “dictate” mean on the GRE?
dictate (verb) means “To lay down authoritatively; to prescribe”. Market forces rather than government policy will ultimately dictate the pace and direction of the energy transition.
How to remember “dictate” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “dictate” sounds like “dict ate”. A tyrant who DICTATED his rules while EATING a scroll — he really wanted to 'dict-ate'!
What are synonyms for “dictate”?
Common synonyms: command, order, direct.