would-be

/ˈwʊd biː/ (bre, ipa) · /ˈwʊd biː/ (ame, ipa) · /ˈwu̇d-ˈbē How to pronounce would-be (audio)/ (ame, mw)

would-be — adjective

1. used before a noun to describe a person who hopes or intends to become a particu

1.形容詞B1
釋義

used before a noun to describe a person who hopes or intends to become a particular kind of person, even if they have not succeeded yet

例句

The film studio holds auditions for would-be actors every spring.

would-be + noun: describes a person hoping to become [role]

Security guards stopped a would-be robber before he reached the bank entrance.

collocation: would-be robber / would-be assassin

同義詞
  • aspiring

    more positive and ambitious in tone; suggests active effort toward a goal (e.g., aspiring artist vs. would-be artist)

  • budding

    warmer and more informal; used mainly for creative or professional talents (e.g., budding musician)

  • hopeful

    less specific about intent; focuses on desire rather than action (e.g., hopeful candidate)

反義詞
  • actual

    describes someone who has already achieved the role (e.g., actual doctor vs. would-be doctor)

  • established

    emphasises proven success and recognition (e.g., established writer)

  • professional

    stresses qualification and paid experience rather than ambition

文法句型

would-be + noun

用法筆記

Attributive only — must be placed directly before the noun it modifies. Cannot be used after a linking verb (e.g., 'He is would-be' is incorrect). Often carries a suggestion that the person has not yet reached their goal.

常見錯誤

❌She is a would-be.
✅She is a would-be actress.
💡would-be must always be followed by a noun describing the role.
❌He is would-be a pilot.
✅He is a would-be pilot.
💡would-be comes before the noun, not after a linking verb.