understand
verb (used with object)
to perceive the meaning of; grasp the idea of; comprehend.
had been understanding
-
past perfect progressiveof understand.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.
After the incident Dr Upton burst into tears before speaking to a senior colleague, who had been understanding and offered support.
From BBC ● Feb. 6, 2025
He will have to return to Texas "two or three times a semester", and said The Running Man director Edgar Wright had been understanding.
From BBC ● Jul. 17, 2024
Assistant manager Jack Thompson said he was calling about 200 people to cancel their New Year's Eve bookings, adding that people had been understanding.
From BBC ● Dec. 31, 2023
Ms. Barre, who can still do other work at the cooperative, said her employer and colleagues had been understanding.
From New York Times ● Sep. 19, 2021
Ms. McCrea had been understanding and given me extra time.
From "Here to Stay" by Sara Farizan
