Used to describe an action that was ongoing continuously in the past up until another past event interrupted it.
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The sheriff who had been nosing about the fireplace turned and came over to the window, sliding up the shade with a motion and looking out into the dark orchard.
From Lo, Michael! by Hill, Grace Livingston
Our old shepherd dog had been nosing the mow near us for rats.
From The Light in the Clearing by Bacheller, Irving
"Where is Bab?" demanded Tom, who had been nosing around the room like a terrier.
From The Automobile Girls at Chicago or, Winning Out Against Heavy Odds by Crane, Laura Dent
Before she could answer, Rag, the Irish terrier, who had been nosing disconsolately about on the barren rock, suddenly lost his head.
From Flamsted quarries by Nelson, G. Patrick
He had been nosing around up at the mine, and may have overheard something.
From Brand Blotters by Rowe, Clarence H. (Clarence Herbert)
