1. To state or order with authority: This is the most common meaning. It implies a command or instruction that must be followed.
* Example: "The general dictated the battle plan to his troops."
2. To speak or read aloud for someone to write down: This is a more specific meaning, often used in the context of taking notes or creating a document.
* Example: "The lawyer dictated a letter to his assistant."
3. To influence or control strongly: This meaning suggests that something is being imposed or determined by external forces.
* Example: "The weather dictated our plans for the day."
4. To influence or determine: This meaning is similar to the previous one, but with a broader implication of influence.
* Example: "The company's success was dictated by its innovative products."
In all of these meanings, "dictate" implies a strong element of control or influence over something or someone.