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.

Jessica Lautz, deputy chief economist and vice president of research at the trade group, the National Association of Realtors, says would-be buyers may not want to stay on the sidelines.

From Barron's • Jun. 11, 2026

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

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

That alone would kill the enthusiasm of any would-be acorn farmer who had defeated the squirrels and remained patient.

From "Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies" by Jared M. Diamond