was

[wuhz, woz, wuhz] / wʌz, wɒz, wəz /

VERB

exist

Synonyms

STRONG

abide act breathe continue do endure hold inhabit last live move obtain persist prevail remain rest stand stay subsist survive

WEAK

be alive go on have being have place

Antonyms

STRONG

cease depart die discontinue forsake give up go halt idle leave lose pass quit refuse reject stop

VERB

happen

Synonyms

STRONG

befall occur transpire

WEAK

come about come to pass take place

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.

“The Iranians were confused and uncertain of what was happening,” the official said.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 5, 2026

He insisted the event was real, sparking both disbelief and amusement among peers and online observers alike.

From Salon • Apr. 5, 2026

Dolan, 27, was aiming to continue her ascent through the levels after winning the British and Commonwealth super-flyweight titles, but came up against an experienced operator.

From BBC • Apr. 5, 2026

It was not immediately clear whether other service members involved in the rescue mission sustained injuries, or whether the U.S. military suffered any other potential setbacks.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 5, 2026

Aunt Mabel could make that much in forty-five minutes, but she was an expert.

From "Legendary Frybread Drive-In" by Cynthia Leitich Smith