would-be

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.

It became the happiest of times for the would-be actress.

From BBC • Jun. 29, 2026

And one might even trace today’s would-be Rhaena Targaryens — and Daenerys emulators, we know you’re out there — to that shaggy flying dog.

From Salon • Jun. 24, 2026

By 2025, that annual bill had soared above $28,500, outpacing inflation and keeping many would-be buyers out of the market.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 21, 2026

At his press conference Wednesday, Warsh appeared to acknowledge the challenges would-be home buyers are facing.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 18, 2026

The would-be fourth step, which was started in swifter water, never formed, because the current carried away the largest rocks Abel could handle.

From "Abel's Island" by William Steig