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.

The 36 stories of Trump Plaza were lined with balconies, offering would-be residents spectacular views across the Upper East Side.

From Slate • Jun. 11, 2026

Sales executive Joe Fontana thought he had a job in the bag, until his would-be employer contacted one of his former direct reports.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 11, 2026

He accused Meta of "maximising the punishment" as a warning to any other would-be Meta whistleblowers.

From BBC • Jun. 1, 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

Nobody went out into the streets and successfully taught every would-be delinquent the distinction between right and wrong.

From "The Tipping Point" by Malcolm Gladwell