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.

Years grow and gather—each a gem    Lustrous with laughter and with tears,    And cunning Time a crown of years Contrives for her who weareth them.

From Robert F. Murray: His Poems with a Memoir by Murray, Robert F. (Robert Fuller)

Man, we are taught, is prone to evil— That does not vindicate the devil: Besides, man, in his own behoof, Contrives to hide the cloven hoof.

From Fables of John Gay (Somewhat Altered) by Gay, John

The ruling rogue, who dreads to be cashler'd, Contrives, as he is hated, to be fear'd; Confounds accounts, perplexes all affairs: For vengeance more embroils, than skill repairs.

From The Poems of Jonathan Swift, D.D., Volume 1 by Browning, William Ernst

Contrives a conversation for the lady to overhear.

From Clarissa Harlowe; or the history of a young lady — Volume 4 by Richardson, Samuel

But while this pining, pouting Muse The interval ignores, Deft industry, no time to lose, Contrives and carries, hoists and hews, And symmetry restores.

From Poems Vol. IV by Howard, Hattie