Used to describe an action that began in the past, has continued continuously, and is still in progress.
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Hilton has been needling Becerra for not being as publicly visible on the campaign trail since the two men advanced in the June primary.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 19, 2026
Another son, Terry, who manages his campaigns, has been needling him to raise more money.
From New York Times ● Mar. 28, 2011
The U.S. has been "needling that guy from the very beginning," said Paar on the air, "and I really thought it was unfair."
From Time Magazine Archive
He has been needling them since long before the invasion of Manchuria.
From Time Magazine Archive
While Kennedy has been needling Humphrey, McCarthy has been complaining that some Kennedy supporters have distributed nasty half-truths about his record as a Senator.
From Time Magazine Archive
