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preoccupy

[pree-ok-yuh-pahy]

preoccupy Definition

  • 1to be the main thought or concern of someone
  • 2to occupy or engross the mind entirely

Using preoccupy: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "preoccupy" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The issue of climate change preoccupies many scientists.

  • Example

    She was preoccupied with thoughts of her upcoming exam.

  • Example

    His mind was preoccupied with worries about his job.

  • Example

    The children's constant bickering preoccupied their parents.

preoccupy Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for preoccupy

Antonyms for preoccupy

Idioms Using preoccupy

  • to spend time and effort on a particular activity or subject

    Example

    She preoccupied herself with gardening during her retirement.

  • to dominate or monopolize a particular area of activity or interest

    Example

    The company's innovative products have preoccupied the field of technology.

  • preoccupy someone's thoughts

    to be the main thing that someone thinks about

    Example

    The upcoming election preoccupied his thoughts for weeks.

Phrases with preoccupy

  • having one's mind focused on something to the exclusion of other things

    Example

    She was preoccupied with thoughts of her upcoming exam.

  • having one's attention or interest absorbed by something

    Example

    He was preoccupied by the idea of starting his own business.

  • a state of being completely absorbed in one's thoughts or concerns

    Example

    Her preoccupied mind made it difficult for her to focus on anything else.

Origins of preoccupy

from Latin 'praeoccupare', meaning 'to seize beforehand'

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Summary: preoccupy in Brief

The verb 'preoccupy' [pree-ok-yuh-pahy] means to be the main thought or concern of someone, or to occupy or engross the mind entirely. It is often used in phrases like 'preoccupied with' or 'preoccupied by,' as well as idioms like 'preoccupy oneself with.' 'Preoccupy' can be formal, as in 'The issue of climate change preoccupies many scientists,' or informal, as in 'The children's constant bickering preoccupied their parents.'