direct
verb (used with object)
to manage or guide by advice, helpful information, instruction, etc..
were directing
-
past progressiveof direct.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.
Firefighters said miles-long firebreaks had helped to contain the latest break-outs on Thursday night while drones were directing crews to hot spots.
From BBC ● Jul. 24, 2026
Footage from bystanders showed police had cordoned off the scene and were directing beachgoers and drivers away from the area.
From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 15, 2026
Outside the airport, students wearing orange hi-vis vests were directing traffic.
From BBC ● Aug. 7, 2024
Monday as officers were directing traffic after a concert by the jam band let out at the Kodak Center theater complex.
From Seattle Times ● Jan. 2, 2024
Then they began to come closer, all together, as if some internal voice were directing them.
From "Half of a Yellow Sun" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
