would-be

American  

[wood-bee] / ˈwʊdˌbi /

adjective

1. wishing or pretending to be.

   a would-be wit.

2. intended to be.

   a would-be kindness.

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noun

1. a person who wishes or pretends to be something.

   Opera singers and would-bes should practice at least four hours a day.

would-be British  

adjective

1. derogatory wanting or professing to be

   a would-be politician

2. intended to be

   would-be generosity

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noun

1. derogatory a person who wants or professes to be something that he is not

2. the person to whom one is is engaged to be married; fiancé or fiancée

Etymology

Origin of would-be

1250–1300; Middle English (adj.)

Example Sentences

Planning the perfect proposal is a struggle familiar to would-be newlyweds the world over.

From Barron's

Many would-be buyers are still frustrated with high home prices and concerned about their job security, making them wary of large purchases like a new home.

From The Wall Street Journal

These investors are able to edge out potential would-be homeowners, thanks to cash offers and quick closing times.

From MarketWatch

The Louvre museum in Paris was forced to close on Monday as its employees went on strike over working conditions and pay, leaving thousands of would-be visitors disappointed.

From BBC

That has limited the relief for would-be home buyers and others hoping lower rates would ease borrowing costs.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• budding
• enterprising
• potential
• prospective