contrive

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.

They can dominate chunks of a game with their excellence and then contrive to lose that same game with their mental wobbles.

From BBC • Feb. 6, 2026

Others applauded that decision, content not to trot out their work-party ensemble and contrive the holiday cheer.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 17, 2025

He is sometimes inspired to make a poor choice, but, as with the silent comedians of old, the universe will contrive to save him.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 7, 2024

One of the first things McCartney did when he took over the Buffs in 1982 was contrive a rivalry with Nebraska and ban red in the football building.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 6, 2023

The little collection of fruit- bearers growing by the river was his attempt to contrive, rain or no, a patch of the paradise, the green, apple-scented Eden, he envisioned.

From "In Cold Blood" by Truman Capote