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.

I had been teaching gymnastics from age 15.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 20, 2026

Waite had been teaching Toni Morrison’s Beloved, which provoked discussions about slavery.

From Slate • Dec. 18, 2025

Perhaps the third time was the charm, and the universe had been teaching me patience.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 9, 2024

I’m an academic with degrees in earth sciences, I had been teaching college for 30-plus years and am not so easy to intimidate, but they got me.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 2, 2024

“You said your mother had been teaching you to dye,” he reminded her.

From "Gathering Blue" by Lois Lowry