teach orally; dictate
Meanings
2 senses · 6 examplesverb
to teach or transmit orally; to pass down verbally
Typically used in contexts of cultural preservation, referring to passing down traditions, songs, or skills from one generation to the next without written records.
This ancient ballad has been preserved to this day because it was passed down orally through generations of the clan.
Many intangible cultural heritage skills were initially transmitted through oral instruction and mental transmission.
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In eras without writing, historical stories relied entirely on oral transmission.
verb
to dictate; to speak for someone else to write down
formalCommonly used in formal or official contexts, such as dictating letters, commands, or documents to a secretary or scribe.
The general dictated an urgent combat order for his adjutant to transcribe quickly.
Unable to write due to his injury, he had to dictate the contents of his will to his lawyer.
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The secretary skillfully typed out the letter that the boss had dictated.