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
Tuesday’s ruling whipsawed France’s political establishment, which had been preparing for a realignment of the country’s political order in the event the ban was upheld.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 7, 2026
Morgan, Teresa's only daughter, was a deputy manager for Aldi and had been preparing to join the fire brigade.
From BBC ● Jun. 8, 2026
Wales had been preparing for life without him for some time.
From BBC ● Apr. 7, 2026
All along, he had been preparing for this, if not on American soil, then back in the old country.
From "The City Beautiful" by Aden Polydoros
