sputtering

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.

But what’s extra notable about the sputtering tech partnerships of the 2020s is how baldly they smack of desperation.

From Slate • Apr. 16, 2026

While flagging inflation risks from the Middle East conflict, the central bank also emphasized that the economy is sputtering and having difficulty absorbing excess slack.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 18, 2026

With the June primary looming, Villaraigosa’s campaign risks sputtering out.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 16, 2026

Whether it's been age profile, a creaking scrum, a sputtering attack, the unsettled fly-half situation or a British and Irish Lions hangover, most of the discussion has been largely negative.

From BBC • Feb. 20, 2026

One ancient street lamp is trying to light this lonely place, sputtering its life away.

From "Beast Rider" by Tony Johnston & María Elena Fontanot de Rhoads