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 recent months, the federal research engine has sputtered, with far fewer new grants awarded or made available than in years past.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 20, 2026

Europe is an important region for Tesla, where its performance has sputtered in recent quarters.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 20, 2026

Atlanta’s defense is solid, but the offense without Drake London has sputtered.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 27, 2025

But their fortunes are not just explained by their companies successes - their rivals have made less in a year in which China's economy has sputtered.

From BBC • Oct. 29, 2024

Our mutual affection has been a beakin ever since, though I can’t deny it has sputtered some once in awhile, and burned purty low, tryin’ times like house-cleanin’ an’ wash-days.”

From Winona of the Camp Fire by Widdemer, Margaret