noun
dictation
The act of telling others what they must do.
The council resists dictation from officials who ignore local needs.
Etymology
Latin dictare could mean to prescribe or command. Dictation in this sense is authoritative telling, in which one person sets the course of action for others.
More examples
- They want cooperation, not dictation.
- Parents can offer guidance without resorting to dictation.
- The committee rejects outside dictation of its priorities.
Forms
dictation
dictate verb — To tell others what they must do.
dictatorial adjective — Inclined to give orders and demand obedience.