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.

King Lear mournfully wonders, “Is there any cause in nature that makes these hard hearts?”

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 17, 2026

In the end, the police officers present at the march kept a discreet presence, looking on mournfully at a party from which they were excluded.

From BBC • Jun. 28, 2025

I observed her and rather mournfully said, "She'll never be a scientist.’"Don mulled this over for a second then cheerily countered, "Ah, but she will be a philosopher."

From Salon • Feb. 9, 2025

She paused, and added mournfully, “I was flabbergasted.”

From Slate • Jul. 30, 2024

Doc Daneeka exclaimed mournfully with accusing disgust, the egg-shaped pouches under both eyes firm and censurous.

From "Catch-22" by Joseph Heller