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.

Sentiment had been improving in recent months, helped by improving domestic demand and particularly by expectations that fiscal stimulus planned by Germany’s government would boost the country’s manufacturing sector.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 25, 2026

Now the severe sentence may again weigh on relations, which had been improving after the election of a new, center-left Labor government in Australia in 2022.

From New York Times • Feb. 5, 2024

He said business had been improving over the summer.

From BBC • Dec. 17, 2021

Before the pandemic, safety on U.S. roadways had been improving for decades, thanks to enforcement of seatbelt laws and the advent of airbags, improved braking and stability control, and other safety features.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 8, 2021

Ella was up, and had been improving rapidly.

From Field and Forest The Fortunes of a Farmer by Optic, Oliver