basket-case

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 Welch’s legacy took a hit following his retirement as GE went from America’s most-valuable company to a basket case, eventually splitting in three under an outsider’s management.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 17, 2026

"This was meant to be essential works to keep a cherished, historic building safe and functioning. It has turned into a basket case white elephant project."

From BBC • Feb. 17, 2026

Fifteen years later, Libya remains a basket case of militias, warlords and weak institutions.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 12, 2025

And Jeremy Jordan’s Gatsby is an adorably panicked basket case, second-guessing in charming comic song his plan to ambush Eva Noblezada’s Daisy with a reunion.

From New York Times • Apr. 25, 2024

“We’ve got over forty-five minutes, darling. Hold your horses. You’re going to turn me into a basket case if you don’t relax. Let’s go pray at the shrine.”

From "The Great Santini" by Pat Conroy