1. dictate - Noun
2. dictate - Verb
To tell or utter so that another may write down; to inspire; to compose; as, to dictate a letter to an amanuensis.
To say; to utter; to communicate authoritatively; to deliver (a command) to a subordinate; to declare with authority; to impose; as, to dictate the terms of a treaty; a general dictates orders to his troops.
To speak as a superior; to command; to impose conditions (on).
To compose literary works; to tell what shall be written or said by another.
A statement delivered with authority; an order; a command; an authoritative rule, principle, or maxim; a prescription; as, listen to the dictates of your conscience; the dictates of the gospel.
Source: Webster's dictionaryThe political lesson of Watergate is this: Never again must America allow an arrogant, elite guard of political adolescents to by-pass the regular party organization and dictate the terms of a national election. Gerald Ford
Illiterates have to dictate. Stanisław Jerzy Lec
No man has the right to dictate what other men should perceive, create or produce, but all should be encouraged to reveal themselves, their perceptions and emotions, and to build confidence in the creative spirit. Ansel Adams
The block of wood should not dictate to the carver. Maori Proverb
Don't let your past dictate your future. African Proverb
The block of wood should not dictate to the carver. New Zealander Proverb