estaban aflojando
-they/you were loosening
Imperfecto progresivo para el sujetoellos/ellas/ustedesdel verboaflojar.

aflojar

Para la década del 80 ya estaban aflojando su control sobre los partidos políticos – permitiendo un poco de libertad para reunirse y discutir.
By 1980s, they were easing their control over the political parties—allowing a little freedom to assemble and debate.
Palabra del día
la canela