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.

For five years Himatraj and Rajvir Bajwa from London tried unsuccessfully to start a family, including with two rounds of IVF, before they decided to pursue surrogacy.

From BBC • May 7, 2026

Even Duncan’s Democratic opponent in the race for the clerk position made similar claims, unsuccessfully seeking a petition to keep Duncan from saying he was exonerated.

From Slate • May 5, 2026

Zamora ran unsuccessfully for the City Council in 2020.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 30, 2026

Emma Cunliffe, interim head of operations of the cultural aid group Blue Shield International, said she unsuccessfully sought a grant earlier this year to study the implications of drone strikes on heritage sites.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 17, 2026

Seven’s cheeks were hot as Alaric tried, unsuccessfully, to hold back an amused smirk.

From "Witchlings" by Claribel A. Ortega