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.
The Mogami-class frigate, which Japan’s Maritime Self-Defense Force has been sailing since 2022, is the kind of high-tech weaponry that Japan wants to sell overseas after relaxing decades-old restrictions on lethal arms exports.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 21, 2026
Lynette Hooker's daughter, Karli Aylesworth, told CBS that her mother has been sailing for more than 10 years and is an experienced swimmer.
From BBC ● Apr. 8, 2026
Only one ship has been sailing that crossing for several years now, as the ferry system works to dig itself out of a crew shortage.
From Seattle Times ● Apr. 19, 2023
Since July, the Yuan Wang 5 has been sailing from China to Hambantota port on the southern tip of Sri Lanka after Sri Lankan officials approved a stop there for “replenishment.”
From Washington Post ● Aug. 11, 2022
She has been sailing under false colors long enough.”
From Dolly's College Experiences by Mabel Cronise Jones
