collect
verb (used with object)
to gather together; assemble.
have been collecting
-
present perfect progressiveof collect.present perfect progressive
Used to describe an action that began in the past, has continued continuously, and is still in progress.
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.
Several Iranian human-rights groups based abroad have been collecting documentary evidence and counting the dead, through eyewitness reports, hospital records and video evidence.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jan. 16, 2026
Retailers have been collecting massive amounts of customer data for decades through loyalty reward programs and club cards.
From Los Angeles Times ● May 2, 2025
Since then, the ancient wood has provided a splendid buffet for organisms of all sorts, and Dr. Distel and his colleagues have been collecting and characterizing them as fast as they can.
From New York Times ● Feb. 6, 2024
"I have been collecting board games for 43 years, since I was aged 14," he said.
From BBC ● Jan. 27, 2024
All day long we have been collecting stories from strangers telling us how much they appreciate Mrs. Peck, Mrs. Malloy, and the work of all the women in the Housewives’ League.
From "Betty Before X" by Ilyasah Shabazz and Renée Watson
