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.

The agency’s medical reviewers have been straining for months under a crushing pandemic workload, while the agency’s reputation for scientific independence has been battered by a string of public controversies.

From Seattle Times • Nov. 12, 2021

But the fashion industry and its spectators thrive on the novelty and transience of trends, so denim writers have been straining to create infinitesimal distinctions between the allegedly cool and the allegedly uncool anyway.

From Slate • Apr. 18, 2021

Firefighters have been straining to contain blazes that have surrounded this town of 7,600.

From New York Times • Dec. 9, 2017

Since the two cases were opened, both sides have been straining to calculate the largest number they can in terms of economic harm.

From New York Times • Jan. 31, 2011

But—well! it is too soon to speak—I still have some hopes—-I have been straining every nerve.

From Helbeck of Bannisdale — Volume II by Ward, Humphry, Mrs.