Preoccupation: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone is mainly focused or thinking about something specific, often to the exclusion of other things. It is neutral in tone.

• Her preoccupation with work made her forget her friend's birthday

Used when someone has an overwhelming focus on something to the point where it disrupts normal life. It carries a strong negative connotation.

• His obsession with social media affected his work performance

Used when someone has an excessive and unhealthy focus on something. It often implies a disturbance in balance. It has a slightly negative tone.

• Her fixation on cleanliness makes it difficult to relax at home

Used when someone is worried or anxious about something. It is important enough to be worth attention.

• His main concern is the well-being of his family

Used to describe a state of being excessively preoccupied or fixated on something, often in a manner that is difficult to control. This term usually has a negative connotation.

• Her obsessiveness about her diet left little room for enjoyment

Used when someone is so absorbed in something that it distracts them from other activities or thoughts. It carries a neutral to slightly negative connotation.

• His preoccupation with work made him miss his daughter's school play

Usually refers to a person's job or profession. It has a neutral connotation.

• His occupation as a doctor keeps him very busy

Often used to describe a formal agreement to get married or an arrangement to do something. It generally has a positive or neutral connotation.

• They announced their engagement at the family dinner

Used to describe a specific piece of work that needs to be done. It carries a neutral connotation.

• She completed the task ahead of the deadline

Refers to a strong dedication or obligation to a cause, relationship, or activity. This term has a positive connotation.

• Her commitment to the charity is truly inspiring

Use this word when someone is so absorbed in thought about something that it distracts them from other things.

• Her preoccupation with the project made her miss the meeting

Choose this word when the situation involves a sense of care or responsibility for something or someone, often with a hint of worry.

• Her main concern was the safety of her children

This word fits when someone feels a strong sense of worry or dread, often about something specific or general in the future.

• He felt a surge of anxiety before his job interview

Use this word for situations where someone is mentally disturbed by potential problems or uncertainties.

• She tends to worry about her health a lot

This word is suitable for situations where someone faces difficulties or problems. It has a slightly negative connotation.

• He's in trouble for missing the deadline