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.

The reformist People's Party -- which had been polling first ahead of the election, but ultimately came in second -- will lead the opposition.

From Barron's • Mar. 18, 2026

Adams had been polling in fourth place and struggling to fundraise.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 1, 2025

Christie had been polling in a comfortable, if distant, third place in the primary, with his average support in the low double digits.

From Slate • Jan. 11, 2024

He had been polling below 10% in the race, and was given almost no chance of actually winning.

From Seattle Times • Dec. 2, 2023

Villavicencio had been polling around the middle of the pack in a field of eight candidates.

From Reuters • Aug. 13, 2023