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.

Jessie Homer French has been painting folk-inflected scenes of environmental catastrophe for decades, but her consistent message and style remain bracingly fresh in the presentation by Various Small Fires.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 27, 2026

So when a slideshow of Kelly’s hairless visage appeared on the screen, Dokoupil fell bracingly silent.

From Slate • Jan. 6, 2026

Time's Stephanie Zacharek said the actress is "a bold, creative performer" who is "laceratingly funny and bracingly convincing".

From BBC • Aug. 29, 2025

And as someone who identifies as asexual and is possibly on the spectrum, he brings a bracingly original perspective to the classic homecoming play, updating the genre for the 21st century.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 3, 2025

“Good work, everyone, I think we’ll flatten Slytherin,” he said bracingly, and the Chasers and Beaters left the changing room looking reasonably happy with themselves.

From "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince" by J.K. Rowling