sparring

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.

After weeks of verbal sparring, the U.S. announced that it was sending Rubio to Rome later this week.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 5, 2026

The book club enjoys sparring over polarizing books, but the point is always friendship.

From Los Angeles Times • May 4, 2026

Still, the archbishop is hopeful that the sparring will blow over.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 17, 2026

His sparring with the president appears to be part of an aggressive strategy to amplify his own messaging as he weighs a potential run for president in 2028.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 17, 2026

“We will follow the standard rules of sparring conduct.”

From "Beasts of Prey" by Ayana Gray