Preoccupy

Pronunciation: /priˈɑkjəˌpaɪ/

Definitions of preoccupy

verb to absorb or engross the mind completely; to occupy or distract someone beforehand or in advance

Example Sentences

A1 She preoccupies herself with her favorite TV show.

A2 He preoccupies his mind with thoughts of his upcoming exam.

B1 The constant noise from the construction site preoccupies the workers during the day.

B2 Her fear of failure preoccupies her thoughts and affects her performance.

C1 The political situation in the country preoccupies the minds of many citizens.

C2 His research on climate change preoccupies him to the point where he forgets to eat.

Examples of preoccupy in a Sentence

formal Her work responsibilities often preoccupy her thoughts throughout the day.

informal She can't stop thinking about her upcoming vacation, it's really preoccupying her mind.

slang I'm so preoccupied with this new video game, I can't focus on anything else.

figurative The looming deadline preoccupies his mind like a dark cloud, causing stress and anxiety.

Grammatical Forms of preoccupy

• past tense: preoccupied
• plural: preoccupies
• comparative: more preoccupied
• superlative: most preoccupied
• present tense: preoccupy
• future tense: will preoccupy
• perfect tense: have preoccupied
• continuous tense: are preoccupying
• singular: preoccupy
• positive degree: preoccupied
• infinitive: to preoccupy
• gerund: preoccupying
• participle: preoccupied

Origin and Evolution of preoccupy

First Known Use: 0015 year

Language of Origin: Latin

Story behind the word: The word 'preoccupy' originated from the Latin word 'praeoccupare', which means to seize beforehand.

Evolution of the word: Originally used in the 15th century, 'preoccupy' meant to seize or take possession of something beforehand. Over time, its meaning evolved to refer to someone's mind being absorbed or engrossed in thoughts or worries.