examine
verb (used with object)
to inspect or scrutinize carefully.
were examining
-
past progressiveof examine.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.
To determine exactly what kind of dinosaur they were examining, the scientists used CT scanning technology to investigate the fossil in detail.
From Science Daily ● Oct. 14, 2026
Authorities probing last year’s Air India calamity said in court filing they were examining a range of factors, including by conducting a “psychological autopsy and evaluation.”
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 8, 2026
On Thursday, the Wall Street Journal reported that regulators across several federal agencies were examining private credit firm disclosures and valuations for their loans.
From Barron's ● Apr. 24, 2026
The timing of the trips coincide with years in which federal prosecutors were examining Maxwell's conduct and travels as part of the criminal case they brought against her.
From BBC ● Dec. 23, 2025
The centurion was watching with more interest than concern, as if he were examining one of his stupid gutted teddy bears.
From "The Son of Neptune" by Rick Riordan
