be
verb (used without object)
to exist or live.
had been
-
past perfectof be.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
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.
The identity of the hackers was known, MAG said, and the relevant authorities had been informed.
From BBC ● Aug. 27, 2026
European Commission spokesman Thomas Regnier said the EU has had new "exchanges" with the firm since the landmark settlement in the United States, which he said Brussels had been following "very closely".
From Barron's ● Aug. 27, 2026
All had been represented by a plaintiffs’ firm, Downtown L.A.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 27, 2026
Segments 1 through 9 carried segmented appendages, and the rear abdominal limbs had been modified into paddle-like structures.
From Science Daily ● Aug. 27, 2026
All these years, being called a monster had been a thorn in his heart.
From "The Undead Fox of Deadwood Forest" by Aubrey Hartman
