Synonyms for

Dictated

Verb / dɪˈkteɪtɪd / / ˈdɪˌkteɪtɪd / Another word for dictated — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To speak or read something out loud for someone else to write down or record.

Synonyms & similar words

prescribe order determined set dictate commanded ordered directed instructed guided supervised managed oversaw regulated administered orchestrated conducted arranged planned organized prepared decreed enjoined pronounced announced

Synonyms by register

Formal

prescribed mandated stipulated decreed

Informal

told ordered bossed around called the shots

Literary

ordained enjoined commanded

Antonyms

freely voluntarily spontaneously independently unprompted self-directed

Common collocations

  • dictated terms
  • dictated policy
  • dictated by circumstances
  • dictated by fear
  • dictated the pace
  • dictated the outcome
  • dictated the agenda

Word family

noun dictation
verb dictate
adjective dictatorial

Usage note

Often used to imply a strong, sometimes unwelcome, influence or control. Can also refer to the act of speaking words to be written down.

Example sentences

  1. The teacher dictated the spelling words to the class.
  2. The doctor dictated his notes on the patient's condition.
  3. The boss dictated the memo to his secretary.
  4. The coach dictated the play to the team.
  5. The author dictated the manuscript to his editor.

Quotes

  • 'I never dictate, I just write.' - Boris Pasternak
  • 'Writing is the only profession where no one considers you ridiculous if you earn no money.' - Jules Renard
  • 'Dictators ride to and fro upon tigers which they dare not dismount. And the tigers are getting hungry.' - Winston Churchill

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