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Unoccupied Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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unoccupied

[ʌnˈɒkjʊpaɪd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

room

Not being used or lived in.

Synonyms

empty, unused, vacant.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unoccupied

Best used to describe a space or place that currently has no people or activities happening in it.

  • The restroom was unoccupied, so I quickly went in.
  • The house has been unoccupied for years.
vacant

Often used to describe a room, building, or position that is available for use or occupancy. It is common in real estate and employment contexts.

  • There are several vacant apartments in the building.
  • The position of manager is currently vacant.
empty

This word is often used to describe a space or container that has nothing inside. It is quite versatile and can be used in both physical and abstract contexts.

  • The fridge was empty, so we went grocery shopping.
  • She felt empty after hearing the sad news.
unused

Typically describes something that has not been utilized. This can relate to objects, places, or resources.

  • The room remained unused since they moved in.
  • There are a lot of unused gym memberships.

Examples of usage

  • The house next door has been unoccupied for years.
  • There are several unoccupied rooms in the hotel.
Context #2 | Adjective

time

Not filled or busy with activity.

Synonyms

available, free, idle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unoccupied

Use this word when referring to a space or object that is not currently being used or inhabited. It usually applies to places, seats, or positions.

  • The chair next to me is unoccupied
  • The apartment has been unoccupied for months
free

This word applies when someone or something is not currently engaged or busy, and can also suggest the absence of cost.

  • Are you free this evening? The concert tickets are free
available

Use this word when something can be used or obtained, often referring to time slots, resources, or people who are ready to help.

  • The room is available after 3 PM
  • Is the software developer available for the meeting?
idle

Use this word to describe a person or machine not doing anything productive, often with a slightly negative connotation.

  • The workers stood idle while waiting for the new supplies
  • The car engine was idle for ten minutes

Examples of usage

  • My schedule for tomorrow is unoccupied, so I can meet you for lunch.
  • Her calendar was unoccupied for the afternoon.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Research shows that unoccupied spaces can lead to feelings of relaxation and calmness, as they represent openness and freedom.
  • In social psychology, unoccupied seats in a room may influence people's perception of belonging and comfort in social settings.

Architecture

  • Unoccupied buildings can have significant architectural value; architects often design spaces to be inviting yet functional even when not in use.
  • Urban planners consider unoccupied land for sustainable development, turning it into parks or community areas to benefit neighborhoods.

Literature

  • In literature, unoccupied spaces often symbolize loneliness or potential, reflecting the characters' emotional states.
  • Famous literary works frequently depict abandoned houses and places as metaphors for the past and things left behind.

Pop Culture

  • In films and television, unoccupied locations are often used to evoke suspense or foreboding, setting the tone for a scene.
  • The notion of unoccupied time is often explored in self-help contexts, emphasizing the importance of downtime for mental health.

Origin of 'unoccupied'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' combined with 'occupied', which has Latin roots meaning 'to seize or take control of'.
  • In the early use, the term referred to physical space, but it has expanded to include time and activities as well.

The word 'unoccupied' originated from the combination of the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and the past participle of the verb 'occupy', ultimately derived from the Latin word 'occupare' meaning 'to seize' or 'to take over'. The term has been in use since the 17th century, evolving to its current meaning of 'not being used or filled with activity.'

See also: occupancy, occupation, occupations, occupied, occupying, preoccupied, preoccupy, underoccupancy.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,202, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.