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.

By the time the agents shoved me into that unmarked SUV, three minutes and 30 seconds had elapsed.

From Slate • Jan. 23, 2026

Because he was absent for more than eight minutes, he was not allowed to bat until the same amount of time had elapsed, as per the rules.

From Barron's • Nov. 22, 2025

Reznik said there was a “time gap” between the time she left and the crash, but he was unsure how much time had elapsed.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 20, 2024

A full 10 minutes had elapsed since Crooks was spotted on the roof.

From BBC • Jul. 21, 2024

Nearly half of the hour allotted by Voldemort for his surrender had elapsed.

From "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows" by J.K. Rowling