Synonyms for preoccupation

Grammar : Noun

Spell : pree-ok-yuh-pey-shuh n, pree-ok-

Phonetic Transcription : priˌɒk yəˈpeɪ ʃən, ˌpri ɒk-

Définition of preoccupation

Origin : 1550s, "state of occupying beforehand," from Latin praeoccupationem (nominative praeoccupatio) "a seizing beforehand, anticipation," noun of action from past participle stem of praeoccupare, from prae- "before" (see pre-) + occupare "seize" (see occupy). Meaning "mental absorption" is from 1854. Earlier its secondary sense was "bias, prejudice" (c.1600).

noun absorption
noun mental state

Example sentences :

He is the one thing that is hated, and the only preoccupation.
Extract from : « The Dream » by Emile Zola

It was impossible for her to conceal her preoccupation and anxiety.
Extract from : « Hetty's Strange History » by Anonymous

“No doubt it is the preoccupation of genius,” remarked Mrs. Dickens.
Extract from : « Cap'n Warren's Wards » by Joseph C. Lincoln

The office force noticed his preoccupation and commented upon it.
Extract from : « The Portygee » by Joseph Crosby Lincoln

Despite his preoccupation, Captain Zelotes could not help smiling.
Extract from : « The Portygee » by Joseph Crosby Lincoln

Often across this preoccupation there flitted a thought of the Richlings.
Extract from : « Dr. Sevier » by George W. Cable

The youth saw the preoccupation, and arose to take his leave.
Extract from : « Davenport Dunn, Volume 1 (of 2) » by Charles James Lever

In this preoccupation he almost forgot the fear of her presence.
Extract from : « An Outcast of the Islands » by Joseph Conrad

The selfishness, the preoccupation, the anti-republicanism of these, are proverbial.
Extract from : « The Arena » by Various

The preoccupation with form had developed in him as complement of his nature.
Extract from : « Erik Dorn » by Ben Hecht

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Based on : Thesaurus.com - Gutenberg.org - Dictionary.com - Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019