Synonyms of behest

behest

noun

bi-ˈhest 

as in edict

a statement of what to do that must be obeyed by those concerned

I only made the change at the author's behest

Synonyms & Similar Words

• edict
• instruction
• order
• direction
• directive
• do
• injunction
• decree
• command
• commandment
• imperative
• requirement
• dictate
• charge
• demand
• word
• mandate
• law
• rule
• statute
• regulation
• ordinance
• countermand
• counterorder
• prescription
• precept
• prescript

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• petition
• appeal
• plea
• proposal
• recommendation
• urging
• entreaty
• suggestion

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of behest

After casting Ryder at the studio’s behest, Di Novi hit it off with the actor, and their rapport led to one of Di Novi’s key early partnerships. — Jim Hemphill, IndieWire, 9 Sep. 2026

Tannenbaum and Spielman, at Johnson’s behest, emphasized a uniform interview process for all candidates, eliminating emotional or personal bias, right down to the timing of each interview; every session was an identical length. — Zack Rosenblatt, New York Times, 8 Sep. 2026

The 20-firefighter team made a stop at Merrillville Fire Station #73 at the behest of team member Phil Hasier, a Merrillville Fire captain taking his inaugural ride. — Michelle L. Quinn, Chicago Tribune, 7 Sep. 2026

An internal company memo from around the time of the recovery mission — also obtained by CNBC — indicates Coupang coordinated the computer recovery at the behest of a high-ranking national security officer from the South Korean president’s office. — Justin Papp, CNBC, 31 Aug. 2026

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