Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Weeks earlier, he had whistled for the birthday party of chief of staff Andy Card, who then told President George W. Bush about it.
From The Wall Street Journal ● May 3, 2026
Upon review, it was ruled a fumble, but because officials had whistled the play dead, the ball was spotted at the Saints’ 13-yard line.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 15, 2019
Those are Auburn fans, unaware that the referee had whistled Tigers guard Samir Doughty for jumping into Guy’s leg.
From Slate ● Apr. 6, 2019
At the Benito Villamarín, supporters had whistled God save the Queen, a recurring theme in Spain and one that the press is particularly ashamed of.
From The Guardian ● Oct. 16, 2018
On the Mississippi a steamer, upward bound, that had whistled to land at Belmont or Belle Alliance plantation, seemed to be staying there afraid to venture away.
From Bonaventure A Prose Pastoral of Acadian Louisiana by George Washington Cable
