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.

Pushed on why he did not do more while in office, Welby said police told him "under no circumstances are you to get involved because you will contaminate our enquiry".

From BBC • Mar. 30, 2025

Kim believes the discharge will contaminate the waters around the Korean peninsula, while fisheries officials and merchants worry safety concerns will keep consumers away.

From Reuters • Aug. 24, 2023

“This will contaminate the bait, repel ants from it, and you will be starting from square one,” she said.

From Seattle Times • May 4, 2023

That’s because, though the field may appear dry afterward, spilling gas all over a patch of dirt and grass will contaminate the surface.

From Washington Post • Apr. 10, 2019

If you haven’t been keeping the tree suspended in memory, the word islands, which is ringing in your mind’s ear just before you type the verb, will contaminate the number you give the verb.

From "The Sense of Style" by Steven Pinker