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.

Taking a step back and looking at initial public offerings and public equity markets versus privates, I think it’s fair to say that somewhere along the line, we’ve lost our way.

From Barron's • May 21, 2026

What, Henry asks, “have kings, that privates have not too, save ceremony, save general ceremony?”

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 9, 2026

They’re going to put aspartame in this possibly-causing-cancer category, along with, oh, putting talcum powder on your privates, or working in a dry cleaner.

From Slate • Jun. 29, 2023

The army statement included photos of the four: a corporal, a lance-corporal and two privates.

From BBC • Apr. 1, 2023

What else could they do?—They are mere privates, and he is a big bug.

From "All Quiet on the Western Front: A Novel" by Erich Maria Remarque