respond
verb (used without object)
to reply or answer in words.
had been responding
-
past perfect progressiveof respond.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.
The consul general had been responding to a Times editorial supporting a boycott of products made with cotton produced in the Xinjiang region of China.
From Los Angeles Times β May 11, 2026
He said Roberts had been responding to a "grave emergency" which could have resulted in the death of a child, but he should still have driven with caution and care.
From BBC β Apr. 7, 2026
While we worked, Dalia reflected on the way different customers had been responding to the shooting in the weeks since Oct 25.
From Slate β Dec. 4, 2024
The deputies had been responding to a report of an unoccupied vehicle and were searching the area when they found him dead in an area away from the vehicle, the statement said.
From New York Times β Apr. 7, 2024
It betrayed that quality behind the tone to which I had been responding, and of which I had been afraid, ever since I knew the man.
From The High Heart by Basil King
