had been sputtering
- past perfect progressive of sputter.
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.
St. Bonaventure’s offense had been sputtering all night until Koen Glover finally broke through for an eight-yard touchdown run with 4:17 left.
From Los Angeles Times ● Dec. 3, 2023
Before that game, the Chargers’ offense had been sputtering.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jan. 4, 2023
Against the Rams, they also righted an offense that had been sputtering, struggling to sustain drives and finish in the end zone.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jan. 1, 2023
The Yankees’ offense had been sputtering badly coming into the game.
From New York Times ● Aug. 16, 2014
Miller had a broad smile at the end of the game, relieved that the Sabres, who had been sputtering, won their second straight overtime game.
From New York Times ● Mar. 8, 2010
