make
verb (used with object)
to bring into existence by shaping or changing material, combining parts, etc..
had been making
-
past perfect progressiveof make.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.
Adlam said the conflicting reports had been making her "more and more angry" and the uncertainty had left her family "in turmoil".
From BBC ● Aug. 11, 2026
Wegner previously said he had been making phone calls about the situation throughout that day.
From Barron's ● Jul. 10, 2026
A handful of scientists had been making the case that this might be doable.
From Salon ● Jun. 26, 2026
His team was excited about it, and the president had been making tweaks to his speech on Air Force One up until Saturday morning.
From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 26, 2026
While Carter had been making speeches and Obie flashing his poster around, Archie’s mind had been racing, probing, testing.
From "The Chocolate War" by Robert Cormier
