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.

Kakar despairs at the plight of Afghans who remain in Pakistan.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 28, 2024

Then Isabel’s despairs stack, pressing her to expand her inquiry beyond the United States and diagnose history’s gravest injuries.

From Salon • Jan. 26, 2024

When they finally make it to their destination and find they’ll be sharing it with an unexpected houseguest, Leon grumbles and despairs of getting anything done.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 12, 2023

The pick of the litter is probably the problematic Seamus, who despairs at how terms like “witness and legacy of violence and valid” transform class into “a tribunal for war crimes.”

From New York Times • May 21, 2023

Another story: the emperor despairs of Ending a horse able to run a thousand li.

From "Typical American" by Gish Jen