prepare
verb (used with object)
to put in proper condition or readiness.
had been preparing
-
past perfect progressiveof prepare.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.
Federal prosecutors in Minnesota had been preparing to charge Castro with deprivation of rights under color of law for the shooting of Sosa-Celis, according to several people familiar with the case.
From Salon ● Sep. 4, 2026
Tete's manager Mlandeli Tengimfene confirmed the fighter had been preparing for a return to the ring on 29 November.
From BBC ● Aug. 22, 2026
Instead, Lobga had been preparing a far more dramatic act the next day: sacrificing his own life for the cause.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 6, 2026
They invited their friends and family to sponsor the native perennials they had been preparing to plant since they bought their Del Rey home in 2021.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 3, 2026
She had been preparing herself for the seeing of me.
From "Wonder" by R. J. Palacio
