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.

All the affected would-be tenants told the BBC they felt pressured to pay more than they could afford.

From BBC • Jun. 9, 2026

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 deck stacked against day traders, Michalka said, the pattern day-trading rule probably helped 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

It was the kind of story that was filling the letters of would-be airmen all over the country.

From "Unbroken" by Laura Hillenbrand