Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

It’s never been more challenging and expensive to live in California, a place of great bounty that often exacts in dollars and stress what it offers in opportunity and wondrous beauty.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 4, 2026

Eliot’s failure at anything like full compliance with Claire’s wishes exacts a price.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 19, 2025

Amazon’s advantage exacts a personal toll, workers say.

From Salon • Nov. 26, 2024

The time it can take to get pregnant often exacts an emotional toll.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 5, 2024

And it exacts that toll in about six minutes.

From "The Boys in the Boat: Nine Americans and Their Epic Quest for Gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics" by Daniel James Brown