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 that ship has sailed, and there’s a host of new competitors.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 16, 2026

"Given the size of the ships, electronic assistance has become necessary to steer them," said one merchant marine captain who has sailed on cargo ships around the world.

From Barron's • Mar. 8, 2026

But I confess: A lot of the time, I do find myself struggling with the feeling that the ship has sailed and that nobody is interested in having that conversation anymore.

From Slate • Sep. 8, 2025

"I'm not saying it will return her to the commercial highs of old, because that ship has sailed for a lot of pre-streaming artists, but it will steady the ship."

From BBC • May 3, 2025

“My school was evacuated to Berkshire. I’ll miss my friends, but I’m quite keen for a new adventure. My grandmother summoned me to Cleveland, but that ship has sailed, you see. Pun intended.”

From "The Bletchley Riddle" by Ruta Sepetys and Steve Sheinkin