happen
verb (used without object)
to take place; come to pass; occur.
was happening
-
past progressiveof happen.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
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.
"They really didn't know what was happening, didn't know how long it was going to last... it must have been quite terrifying for them, in a way."
From BBC ● Aug. 9, 2026
To examine what was happening inside individual cells, Chai used live cell microscopy and flow cytometry, a technique that uses lasers to analyze and separate cells.
From Science Daily ● Aug. 5, 2026
I was simply recording what was happening around me, as I always do.
From BBC ● Aug. 4, 2026
He said he related to the pain and tragedy the character goes through, and to the idea of a superhero story that felt like it was happening in a real place.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 30, 2026
I heard a few shouts and hollers from the street, even the shrill protesting from a horse, but couldn’t see what was happening.
From "The Detective's Assistant" by Kate Hannigan
