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.

That division was visible earlier this week when plans for a second round of talks in Islamabad collapsed after Iranian officials failed to confirm participation and instead introduced new preconditions under pressure from hard-line factions.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 22, 2026

Contrarians typically don’t hazard a guess as to when those preconditions will be met, preferring instead to let the markets tell the story in real time.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 9, 2026

“Even if a ceasefire materialises, restoring supply takes weeks to months-damaged facilities need repair, the cargo backlog is enormous, and Iran’s five preconditions suggest Hormuz reopening is far from guaranteed.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 1, 2026

It requires persistent involvement, coupled with a thorough schooling in the causes of the war and the necessary preconditions for real peace.

From Slate • Dec. 22, 2025

After we came down from the trees, we evolved an upright posture; our hands were free; we possessed excellent binocular vision—we had acquired many of the preconditions for making tools.

From "Cosmos" by Carl Sagan