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.

And when Wembanyama lifted off to attempt the would-be buzzer-beater that could have become the signature highlight of his career, the Knicks had something almost no other team can claim: an answer.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 6, 2026

With the would-be tying run standing on first base and one out, Scott crashed hard on Geraldo Perdomo’s sacrifice bunt and zipped a throw across the diamond just in time for the out.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 3, 2026

With the deck stacked against day traders, Michalka said, the pattern day-trading rule probably helped retail investors by holding back some would-be traders.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 3, 2026

Proponents say return hubs -- which would serve either as the final destination or as transfer centres for those expelled -- could facilitate repatriations and act as a deterrent for would-be irregular migrants.

From Barron's • Jun. 1, 2026

At first, I thought they had been sent out to calm the crowd—or was it to apprehend would-be play pirates?

From "The Shakespeare Stealer" by Gary L. Blackwood