answer
noun
a spoken or written reply or response to a question, request, letter, etc..
had been answering
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past perfect progressiveof answer.past perfect progressive
Used to describe an action that was ongoing continuously in the past up until another past event interrupted it.
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.
Players and coaches had been answering the same questions for months, repeating the same refrain about how a defense that dwelled near the bottom of every statistical category last season would be decidedly different.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 30, 2024
As the discussion unfolded, Dr. Heinel, who had been answering questions in a dull monotone, suddenly perked up and began nodding frequently, as if encouraging the judge’s line of questioning.
From New York Times ● Nov. 5, 2021
He said he also had been answering questions posed by Johnson’s staff.
From Washington Post ● Aug. 5, 2020
Labour sources said Mr Corbyn had been answering a direct question, not making a policy announcement.
From BBC ● Mar. 4, 2016
For two years I had been answering questions, now I would ask some.
From "The Left Hand of Darkness" by Ursula K. Le Guin
