Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Dictated Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ—ฃ๏ธ
Add to dictionary

dictated

[dษชkหˆteษชtษชd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

action of speaking

To dictate means to say something aloud for someone else to write down or to record. It can also refer to an authoritative order or command that must be followed.

Synonyms

command, enjoin, mandate, order.

Examples of usage

  • The teacher dictated the notes to her students.
  • He dictated a letter to his assistant.
  • She was asked to dictate the policy changes.
  • The manager dictated the meeting agenda.
  • During the recording, he dictated his thoughts clearly.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Context

  • Dictation has been a common practice throughout history, especially in education, where teachers dictate lessons for students to write.
  • Famous figures such as presidents and authors often dictated their thoughts to secretaries or assistants to save time.

Pop Culture

  • In movies and TV shows, dictating is often portrayed as a formal act, where important instructions are delivered in an authoritative tone.
  • The term became widely recognized with the introduction of dictation software, which allows users to speak and have their words converted into text.

Technology

  • Modern voice recognition technology has made dictation easier, enabling people to use smartphones and systems to record their voice and convert it into written text.
  • Dictation software is increasingly utilized in professional settings, from healthcare to journalism, to enhance productivity.

Psychology

  • Studies show that dictation can improve memory, as hearing and writing reinforce the learning process.
  • Auditory learning styles often benefit greatly from dictation practices, where the student processes information through listening.

Origin of 'dictated'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'dictare,' which means 'to say' or 'to declare.'
  • In Middle English, 'dictate' was used to mean officially instructing others on what to do.

The word 'dictate' originates from the Latin word 'dictare', which means 'to say out loud' or 'to prescribe'. It is a frequentative form of 'dicere', meaning 'to say' or 'to tell'. The term became influential in medieval times when scribes would 'dictate' letters and documents to be written down. The concept of dictation expanded in various fields, including law and education, as a way for individuals in authority to communicate decisions and instructions. Over time, the verb has adapted to encompass not only the act of verbal communication but also authority and control over decision-making.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,193 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.