have
verb (used with object)
to possess; own; hold for use; contain.
had been having
-
past perfect progressiveof have.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.
Three years ago, “Vanderpump Rules” stars Tom Sandoval and Ariana Madix split after nine years when Madix learned that Sandoval had been having an affair with their co-star and friend Raquel Leviss for seven months.
From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 3, 2026
Trump said the White House had been having “very good and productive” discussions with Iran’s government.
From MarketWatch ● Mar. 26, 2026
In fact Jenrick had been having many more secret discussions with Reform figures for four months including with the party's leader.
From BBC ● Jan. 15, 2026
But on Christmas Eve in 2015, Robert Rhodes found out about an affair that Mrs Rhodes had been having with a co-worker.
From BBC ● Dec. 12, 2025
He made a comment about the pleasant weather they had been having, but Anthony made no effort to put him at ease.
From "Votes for Women!" by Winifred Conkling
