"Was beginning to" vs. "Had begun to"

Question

Hello, there. I had a question regarding the title of this thread. Below is the context:

"There you are! I was beginning to fear that you were lost."
vs.
"There you are! I had begun to fear that you were lost."

I am unable to discern which of the tenses implies the recent past. To clarify, I am trying to write about a man who had been continuing to worry about the safety of his companion up until the point where his companion finally arrived.

I appreciate any feedback. Thanks.

Old Man Gordon · Accepted Answer

After reading your explanation, I would recommend 'had begun'.  'Was beginning' implies that the person was not yet in a state of fear.  Had begun implies that the person reached the state of fear, but only for a short time.

Philip · Answer

Technically, I probably agree with OMG.  However, I don't see a significant difference.

Rozarria · Answer

Great point, OMG. Thanks for your input as well, Philip. I was Anonymous by the way (I just made an account).

Thanks,
rozarria

"Was beginning to" vs. "Had begun to"

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