been

[bin, ben] / bɪn, bɛn /

VERB

exist

Synonyms

STRONG

abide act breathe continue do endure hold inhabit last live move obtain persist prevail remain rest stand stay subsist survive

WEAK

be alive go on have being have place

Antonyms

STRONG

cease depart die discontinue forsake give up go halt idle leave lose pass quit refuse reject stop

VERB

happen

Synonyms

STRONG

befall occur transpire

WEAK

come about come to pass take place

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.

The Dodgers catcher had previously clung to hope that the two, who had been reported missing, would be found.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 6, 2026

Han said he has always been clear about the company’s finances.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jul. 6, 2026

They had been spotted in nearby trees but didn’t immediately return to the nest.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 6, 2026

"There is no doubt there has been a relative relaxation of tensions between the two countries," former Indian foreign secretary Shyam Saran told the BBC.

From BBC • Jul. 6, 2026

Propaganda has been used throughout history by numerous governments, including the United States.

From "At Last She Stood" by Erin Entrada Kelly