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.

Sapna said the accusation "broke him completely" and that she had watched helplessly as the man she loved "slowly slipped away".

From BBC • May 4, 2026

Intel, as investors are painfully aware, has watched helplessly as other tech companies racked up huge gains.

From Barron's • Apr. 14, 2026

When troublemaker Arlene moves in across the street to live with her father, Maria falls helplessly under her corrupting influence.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 17, 2026

All they could do was watch helplessly as Italy and Mexico squared off in a matchup that would determine their fate.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 12, 2026

I peeked out, catching Julia shrugging helplessly and Alyx looking more worried than ever.

From "Bye Forever, I Guess" by Jodi Meadows