encourage
verb (used with object)
to inspire with courage, spirit, or confidence.
have been encouraging
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present perfect progressiveof encourage.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.
Early conversations with potential licensing partners have been encouraging, she said, though she declined to name specific companies.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 3, 2026
Advocates of the Haitian community have been encouraging business groups with large immigrant workforces to lobby behind the scenes if they won't publicly criticize the Trump administration.
From Barron's ● Mar. 12, 2026
Not necessarily, according to aviation-industry experts — though there have been encouraging signs for bargain seekers throughout the past year.
From MarketWatch ● Dec. 18, 2025
Roberts said the early reports on his recovery from a bone bruise in his knee have been encouraging.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 18, 2025
Some of the early results have been encouraging.
From "Silent Spring" by Rachel Carson
