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.

It is no surprise that the U.S.–Iran peace negotiations are over; the two sides had been talking past each other for a while.

From Slate • Jun. 1, 2026

The comment wouldn’t have been a big deal if he had been talking about this year’s Puppy Bowl, in which his clone dog Junie will not be a participant.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 6, 2026

Before joining forces in 2024, Saks and Amazon had been talking for years about how they could work together, according to people familiar with the situation.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 16, 2026

President Donald Trump had been talking about tariffs for a long time and certainly talked about it during the campaign.

From Slate • Nov. 3, 2025

While they had been talking, a messenger in leather leggings had arrived at the butts.

From "The Once and Future King" by T. H. White