Basic Details
Word: Dictate
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To say or read something aloud so that someone else can write it down.
Synonyms: Order, command, prescribe
Antonyms: Follow, obey
Idioms and Phrases
- Dictate terms: To control the conditions or details of a situation. Example: "The CEO was able to dictate terms for the new deal."
- Dictate to someone: To influence or control what someone does or thinks. Example: "Don't let anyone dictate to you how to live your life."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The teacher asked the students to dictate their thoughts on the poem to her.
Example 2: During the meeting, the manager began to dictate the agenda for the week.
Example 3: I took out my notebook to dictate the important points from the lecture.
Fun Fact
The word "dictate" comes from the Latin word "dictare," which means "to say or declare." It originally referred to the act of speaking with authority.
Famous Quote
"We know what we are, but know not what we may be." William Shakespeare. This quote suggests that others expectations can help dictate our potential.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "dictate" mean?
a) To listen carefully
b) To sing a song
c) To say something aloud for writing
d) To read silently
Answer: c) To say something aloud for writing
2. Which of these is a synonym of "dictate"?
a) Walk
b) Order
c) Jump
d) Laugh
Answer: b) Order
3. Which is an antonym of "dictate"?
a) Command
b) Control
c) Follow
d) Decide
Answer: c) Follow
4. Which sentence uses "dictate" correctly?
a) He will dictate the rules for the game.
b) She likes to dictate her own homework.
c) They dictate in the playground.
d) We dictate chocolate every day.
Answer: a) He will dictate the rules for the game.
5. What does "dictate terms" mean?
a) To obey others orders
b) To control the conditions of a situation
c) To read quietly
d) To ignore instructions
Answer: b) To control the conditions of a situation
