dictate-n; 2 Senses

Sense Number 1: a guiding principle

Commentary: DICTATE[+entity][+abstract][+idea][+principle][+guiding]

Examples:
This emotional argument does not conform to the dictates of reason.
The dictates of fashion go against wearing plaids with polka dots.
A dictate of conscience is to be honest.

Mappings:
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 1

Sense Number 2: an authoritative ruling, pronouncement

Commentary: DICTATE[+event][+speech_act][+ruling][+authoritative]
NOTE: implies a pronouncement by an agent

Examples:
The staff gradually learned to ignore the frequent dictates of the boss.
The economic dictates of the new regime were contradictory and unenforceable.

Mappings:
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 2