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.

But in the book, Jill Biden says her husband asked her if he had messed up the debate, and that she replied: "Yes, you did."

From Barron's • May 29, 2026

Trying to tell Nourafchan that he had lost his trading connection, one of the ring members said his “laborers” had messed up the job.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 12, 2026

Before the programme launched in 1966, Michael believed he had messed up his audition after smiling constantly due to nerves.

From BBC • Jul. 10, 2025

At the scene, a clearly shaken Dave is seen on body camera video from other responding officers pacing and saying he had messed up and was “not all right.”

From Seattle Times • Feb. 21, 2024

He had messed up his cartilage so bad that they had to operate.

From "Tangerine" by Edward Bloor