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.

She could not read Japanese and spoke it spottily.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 21, 2025

Noting that Taliban commitments made to foreigners in Kabul were met only spottily in various places, Griffiths said he asked Baradar for all agreements in writing.

From Washington Post • Sep. 7, 2021

Stringent rules that are spottily enforced — and spottily ignored.

From Seattle Times • Jul. 23, 2021

Unfortunately, the federal law and similar state laws are spottily enforced.

From The New Yorker • Jun. 16, 2016

The effort, while spottily executed, was alarming enough to spur one foreign industry association to lodge a complaint with the government.

From New York Times • Nov. 14, 2012