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.
He might have been knocking, but nobody was answering.
From The Wall Street Journal ● May 11, 2026
For months, Manzanarez and Ureña have been knocking on doors, campaigning against the recall.
From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 10, 2024
Rapidly rising Treasury yields have been knocking the stock market lower since the summer.
From Seattle Times ● Oct. 26, 2023
Madrigal said he and others from the immigrant community have been knocking on doors to gather supplies for those in need and offering to translate.
From Washington Times ● Aug. 21, 2023
Aunt Kitty might not have been knocking at the orphan asylum’s doors this time, but school?
From "The Detective's Assistant" by Kate Hannigan
