the action of saying words aloud for someone else to write down, an order or command

Formal and Informal Expressions of dictation

In different contexts, you can replace 'dictation' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'instruction, command' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'order' is a commonplace synonym.

dictation: Explore its Definition & Usage

dictation Definition

1the action of saying words aloud for someone else to write down
2an order or command

Using dictation: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "dictation" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The teacher gave us a dictation to test our spelling.
Example
He was taking dictation from his boss.
Example
The dictator issued a dictation to his army.
Example
She refused to follow his dictations and made her own decisions.

dictation Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for dictation

Phrases with dictation

take dictation
to listen to spoken words and write them down
Example
As a secretary, she had to take dictation from her boss.
under someone's dictation
being controlled or influenced by someone else's orders or commands
Example
He was acting under the dictator's dictation and had no freedom to make his own choices.
give dictation
to speak words for someone else to write down
Example
The teacher gave us a dictation to practice our listening and writing skills.

Origins of dictation

from Latin 'dictare', meaning 'to dictate'

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Summary: dictation in Brief

The term 'dictation' [dɪkˈteɪʃən] refers to the act of speaking words aloud for someone else to write down. It can also mean an order or command given by someone in authority. Examples include 'The teacher gave us a dictation to test our spelling,' and 'He was taking dictation from his boss.' Phrases like 'take dictation' and 'give dictation' are common, as well as 'under someone's dictation,' which means being controlled by someone else's orders.