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
Chairs and tables were upended, crockery and glassware was strewn everywhere, the same as if a tornado had whistled through the room.
From Washington Times ● Nov. 28, 2017
She had whistled him to heel, and he had come with the meekness of the well-trained.
From A Man's Hearth by Eleanor M. (Eleanor Marie) Ingram
