1. To order or command with authority: This is the most common meaning. It implies a strong and often forceful directive.
* Example: The king dictated that all subjects must pay taxes.
2. To speak or read aloud for someone to write down: This refers to the act of dictating a document, letter, or other text.
* Example: The lawyer dictated a letter to his assistant.
3. To control or influence something strongly: This meaning implies a dominating or controlling influence.
* Example: The weather dictated our plans for the weekend.
4. (In grammar) A noun form of "dictation" that refers to a written form of a spoken text:
* Example: The students took a dictate of the teacher's lesson.
In addition to these meanings, "dictate" can also be used in a metaphorical sense. For instance, you might say that "fashion dictates what we wear" or "economics dictate the price of goods."
It's important to understand the context in which "dictate" is used to determine its precise meaning.