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.

“Epstein tried unsuccessfully to leverage a past relationship to threaten Mr. Gates,” a spokeswoman said at the time.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 31, 2026

In 2022, Suozzi opted not to run for re-election, running instead, unsuccessfully, for New York governor.

From Salon • May 29, 2026

There are exceptions, which Brian unsuccessfully attempted to enforce.

From MarketWatch • May 28, 2026

In November, Congress overwhelmingly voted to force the Justice Department to release of the Jeffrey Epstein files, an effort that Trump unsuccessfully tried to thwart for months.

From Los Angeles Times • May 22, 2026

The Warden had tried unsuccessfully to jam Ginny’s washing machine into the already crowded bus.

From "Mountains Beyond Mountains" by Tracy Kidder and Michael French