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Johnny-come-lately

[jon-ee-kuhm-layt-lee] / ˈdʒɒn iˌkʌmˈleɪt li /




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.

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Given he’s been a megawatt star for more than half a century, it’s odd to think that Rod Stewart has opinions on anything as Johnny-come-lately as the Department of Government Efficiency.

From Salon ● Jun. 29, 2025

“King salmon is a Johnny-come-lately that came into this race only after king crab left—died.”

From Slate ● Sep. 18, 2022

In activewear — among the few strong-performing categories in the anemic apparel sector — J. Crew would appear to be a Johnny-come-lately.

From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 11, 2016

It is extraordinarily difficult for a Johnny-come-lately to become a football power.

From New York Times ● Mar. 13, 2016

I'm something of a Johnny-come-lately in this line of work, you know.

From Ham Sandwich by James H. Schmitz

Although its co-founders may be Johnny-come-latelies, it has plenty of chip-industry expertise in its ranks.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 18, 2026

Given that idea, it seems a bit counterproductive to scold these Johnny-come-latelies who arrive at the paid-leave party 40 years after it began.

From Slate ● Jan. 7, 2021

Now the BBC and ITV look less like the big beasts and more like the Johnny-come-latelies.

From BBC ● Feb. 27, 2019

Maybe all you Johnny-come-latelies can just make a donation and leave your lips bare.

From Time ● Nov. 5, 2014

Instead, he was relegated to the sidelines as a marginal player while Johnny-come-latelies like Hamilton and Madison occupied center stage.

From "Founding Brothers: The Revolutionary Generation" by Joseph J. Ellis


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