derail
verb (used with object)
to cause (a train, streetcar, etc.) to run off the rails of a track.
have derailed
-
present perfectof derail.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
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.
Whether or not the opposition and concerns would ultimately have derailed Netflix’s bid, they introduced time risk—and in large transactions, time is money.
From Barron's ● Mar. 23, 2026
An hour into “Sinners” comes a risky scene that could have derailed Ryan Coogler’s hit vampire movie: a juke-joint seance that involves a hip-hop DJ, a breakdancer, a Funkadelic-esque guitarist.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Nov. 26, 2025
Paramount decided not to engage with Apollo’s overture, the people said, with one person explaining that doing so could have derailed its advancing negotiations with Skydance, which became exclusive this week.
From New York Times ● Apr. 3, 2024
But there have been high-profile defeats too, which have derailed policies.
From BBC ● Dec. 8, 2023
All the kisses and endearments in the world couldn’t have derailed the momentum building up in District 8.
From "Catching Fire" by Suzanne Collins
