apply
verb (used with object)
to make use of as relevant, suitable, or pertinent.
had been applying
-
past perfect progressiveof apply.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.
Boone mentioned that he had been applying to be a substitute teacher to help pay the bills, but the process was moving slowly.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 30, 2025
Naldi had been applying an over-the-counter spray available in Italy to a cut on his own hand and had then carried out treatments on Sinner.
From BBC ● Aug. 20, 2024
We had been applying for Medicaid long-term care to receive a home health aide since early November 2021.
From New York Times ● Nov. 14, 2023
For months now, his brother, his brother’s wife and their six children had been applying for evacuation.
From Washington Post ● Sep. 10, 2021
If they could not apply in the play the methods they had been applying skilfully and successfully in the novel, so much the worse for the play.
From Inquiries and Opinions by Brander Matthews
