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.
A legislative assembly member said at the scene that some of the trapped students had been making calls from under the rubble.
From BBC ● Sep. 6, 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
Others found him at his hotel and urged him to commit to the U.S., a plea his parents, citing a quirk in fate, had been making for years.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 15, 2026
He had been making drawings steadily during the past week: he was designing the water-powered generator.
From "Z for Zachariah" by Robert C. O’Brien
