Definition

Adverb: 1. In an overbearingly domineering manner; as a dictator: In a way that exercises absolute, often oppressive, power or control, without regard for the opinions or consent of others.

Usage

The adverb "dictatorially" describes how an action is performed. It modifies verbs to indicate that the action is done in a manner characteristic of a dictator—authoritarian, domineering, and expecting unquestioning obedience. - It is used to describe the behavior of a person in a position of authority. - It carries a strongly negative connotation, implying the abuse of power.

Examples

• The CEO ran the small company dictatorially, making every decision himself and firing anyone who questioned him.
• She ruled her classroom dictatorially, allowing no discussion or deviation from her strict rules.
• He spoke dictatorially to his staff, issuing commands rather than making requests.

Advanced Usage

• "to govern/rule dictatorially": To control a country or organization with absolute, often cruel, authority.
  • The general governed the captured province dictatorially.
• "to behave/act dictatorially": To conduct oneself in an autocratic and overbearing way.
  • The coach began to act dictatorially, ignoring the team's input entirely.

Variants and Related Words

• Dictatorial (adjective): Having the characteristics of a dictator; tyrannical.
  • He has a dictatorial management style.
• Dictatorship (noun): A form of government or a state ruled by a dictator.
  • The country suffered under a brutal dictatorship for decades.
• Dictate (verb): To lay down authoritatively; prescribe.
  • The victors were able to dictate the terms of the peace treaty.

Synonyms

• Autocratically: In a manner of ruling with unlimited power.
• Despotically: In a manner of exercising power cruelly and oppressively.
• Tyrannically: In a manner of using power unjustly and harshly.
• Authoritatively: In a commanding and demanding manner (can be less negative than "dictatorially").
• Overbearingly: In an unpleasantly overpowering way.

Antonyms

• Democratically: In a manner based on the principles of democracy.
• Collaboratively: In a manner involving working together with others.
• Egalitarianly: In a manner asserting the equality of all people.

Related Phrases

• With an iron fist: (Idiom) Ruling or controlling in a very strict and cruel way. This idiom is conceptually similar to acting dictatorially.
  • The queen suppressed the rebellion with an iron fist.

Adverb

1. in an overbearingly domineering manner; as a dictator
   • this manager acts dictatorially toward his colleagues