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.

Still, the oil market is sputtering, and prices are high, but not stratospheric — yet, said Michael Lynch, president of Strategic Energy & Economic Research, an energy-market consulting firm.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 30, 2026

Boston’s biotech sector, long a vital economic engine for one of America’s wealthiest metro areas, is sputtering.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 29, 2025

“Certainly when our offense is sputtering in any way, it’s a good defensive weapon for us, but also kick-starts our offense. We know that’s something that’s in our arsenal.”

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 23, 2025

Defense is better after a rough start but offense is sputtering at an 18th best 3.19 goals per game.

From Seattle Times • Nov. 17, 2023

The pan is sputtering loudly and has showered the wall behind the stove with oil.

From "The Namesake" by Jhumpa Lahiri