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.

Rossbach: There has to be a realignment of the regulatory framework that has been stifling innovation, impeding competition, and putting many European companies at a disadvantage globally.

From Barron's • Jan. 9, 2026

The heat has been stifling for many Texans, but deadly for some of those making their way through the hot, barren shrub land where migrants travel to avoid detection from Border Patrol agents.

From New York Times • Aug. 31, 2023

But lack of funds has been stifling innovation and preventing designers from investing in better production.

From Reuters • Nov. 23, 2022

Their pitching staff, despite losing ace Danny Duffy to an oblique injury and Nate Karns to some elbow pain, has been stifling.

From Washington Times • Jun. 22, 2017

"Better I hope," puffed the Kite; "but you know this cupboard has been stifling for a long while, and so now the first breeze of fresh air is almost too much for us all."

From Tales of the Toys, Told by Themselves by Broderip, Frances Freeling