white elephant

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 critics including Montenegrin opposition leaders, local economists, anti-corruption activists as well as the World Bank and International Monetary Fund called the highway an unnecessary white elephant when the loan was signed.

From Reuters

The location of the sliding venue has been a source of debate because of concern from the International Olympic Committee about runaway spending and white elephant venues.

From Washington Times

Many localities have tried to stave off decline by spending large sums on white elephant projects.

From New York Times

However, the location of the sliding venue for 2026 remains a source of debate because of concern from the International Olympic Committee about runaway spending and white elephant venues.

From Seattle Times

The International Space Station is an orbiting white elephant, sucking money out of true space exploration.

From Washington Post