Decree: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'decree' in formal or authoritative contexts, often when a decision is made by a person of high authority such as a government official or monarch.

• The king issued a decree that all citizens must pay a new tax.
• The president signed a decree to improve environmental regulations.

An 'edict' is similar to a decree but is generally used for formal public announcements made by someone in power, especially by monarchs or religious authorities.

• The emperor's edict was announced in every town square.
• A royal edict prohibited the hunting of endangered species.

'Order' can be used in both formal and informal contexts, and it generally means a command or instruction given by an authority. It can also be used in everyday situations.

• The general gave an order to advance the troops.
• She received an order to submit the report by tomorrow.

Use 'mandate' when referring to an official order or commission to do something, often given by an organization or authority. It often implies a sense of responsibility or duty.

• The new mandate requires all employees to complete safety training.
• The agency has a mandate to protect consumer rights.

This is often used in a formal context when referring to authoritative orders, usually from a government or leader. A decree is binding and official.

• The king issued a decree banning all public gatherings.
• A new environmental protection decree was announced.

This is typically used to describe formal statements or declarations, often of significant matters. Pronouncements can be public or official but are not necessarily authoritative commands.

• The judge made a pronouncement on the case's outcome.
• The CEO's pronouncement changed the direction of the company.

This is generally used in legal contexts to refer to decisions made by a judge or a court. A ruling is an official decision that must be followed.

• The court's ruling was in favor of the defendant.
• The Supreme Court's ruling set a new legal precedent.

This is used in professional or governmental contexts to describe instructions or orders given to guide actions or decisions. It often indicates a clear command that must be followed.

• The manager issued a directive to improve customer service.
• The EU has released a new directive on data protection.

A formal and authoritative order, especially one having the force of law given by a ruler or government.

• The king issued a decree abolishing the old tax laws
• The government passed the decree to ensure public safety

A directive or instruction to do something, commonly used in everyday situations and official contexts.

• He was given an order to clean his room
• The officer issued an order to evacuate the building

An authoritative order given by someone in a higher position, often used in military or hierarchical organizations.

• The general gave the command to advance
• She received a command to report to the officer immediately

An order or principle that must be obeyed, often suggesting strict or authoritarian tone; can have a negative connotation.

• The dictator's rule was marked by harsh dictates
• The policy change was dictated by the economic situation