decretory
Definition
- Adjective:
- Pertaining to a decree: "decretory" describes something that relates to or is of the nature of a decree, edict, or authoritative order. It is a formal term used in legal or administrative contexts.
- Having the force of a decree: "decretory" can also mean something that is decisive or binding, like a decree itself.
Usage Examples
- Adjective:
- The decretory pronouncement from the king ended the dispute. (The statement had the force of a decree, settling the matter.)
- The court issued a decretory order that all parties must comply with. (The order was authoritative and binding like a decree.)
Advanced Usage
"decretory letter": A formal letter that contains or conveys a decree.
- The papal decretory letter was read aloud in the cathedral. (A letter from the Pope that has the status of a decree.)
"decretory power": The authority to issue decrees.
- The council's decretory power was limited to local matters. (The council had the right to make binding orders only on local issues.)
Variants and Related Words
Decretal (adj/n): pertaining to a decree; also, a collection of decrees (especially papal decrees).
- The decretal laws of the church were codified in the 12th century. (The laws based on papal decrees.)
Decree (n): an official order or decision.
- The government issued a decree banning the sale of certain goods. (A formal, binding order.)
Decretory is a synonym for decretive (adj), meaning having the nature of a decree.
Synonyms
- Edictal: relating to an edict (a public decree).
- Mandatory: required by law or rule; having the force of a command.
- Authoritative: having the power to command or enforce decisions.
Related Idioms
- By decree: according to an official order.
- The changes were implemented by decree, without public consultation. (Changes were made through an authoritative order, not by discussion.)
Additional Notes
- "Decretory" is a rare and formal word, primarily found in legal, historical, or theological texts. It is not commonly used in everyday speech.