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purgatory

[pur-guh-tawr-ee, -tohr-ee] / ˈpɜr gəˌtɔr i, -ˌtoʊr i /


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.

Big picture: The job market is stuck in a purgatory of sorts — it’s not getting any better, but it’s also not getting worse.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 19, 2026

Ultimately, it’s an opportunity that could one day dwarf the auto business—and a chance to escape the purgatory they have been in for decades.

From Barron's • Feb. 6, 2026

“Ghosts in the Machine” will take us up stairs, around pathways and into now-deserted zoo enclosures as we try to free a spirit from purgatory.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 21, 2026

I was cast, again, back down to the anonymous purgatory of millions of other job seekers who can’t get a foothold, regardless of credentials, enthusiasm, or positive attitude.

From Slate • Jan. 20, 2026

“If it was terrible, it wouldn’t be purgatory soup, would it? It would be hell soup. Which would have to be more interesting.”

From "Strange the Dreamer" by Laini Taylor




Vocabulary lists containing purgatory