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.

AI-generated errors have afflicted customer service operations at some companies and have caused doctors and lawyers no end of grief, affecting their services to patients and clients.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 30, 2026

And other than a harsh post-election crackdown in the capital, Libreville, in 2016, the country has enjoyed a mostly calm recent history that contrasts with the conflicts and instability that have afflicted many regional neighbours.

From BBC • Apr. 9, 2025

The report found that staffing shortages, which have afflicted all King County’s correctional facilities, have led to youth spending more time than planned alone in their cells, about 14 hours a day total.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 24, 2024

Variola virus, the most notorious poxvirus and one of the deadliest viruses to have afflicted humans, wreaked havoc by causing smallpox until it was eradicated in 1980.

From Science Daily • Feb. 5, 2024

“We cannot remain indifferent to the grievous blows that have afflicted so many good Dominican homes...”

From "In the Time of the Butterflies" by Julia Alvarez