preoccupation

noun

pre·​oc·​cu·​pa·​tion (ˌ)prē-ˌä-kyə-ˈpā-shən 

1

: an act of preoccupying : the state of being preoccupied

2

a

: extreme or excessive concern with something

b

: something that preoccupies one

Synonyms

• fetish
• fetich
• fixation
• idée fixe
• mania
• obsession
• prepossession

Examples of preoccupation in a Sentence

We need to better understand the problems and preoccupations of our clients.

the future entomologist's preoccupation with insects from a very early age

Recent Examples on the Web

Opposition forces have capitalized on the preoccupation of Assad's allies—Russia, Iran, and Hezbollah—with other regional conflicts. —Jason Fields, Newsweek, 5 Dec. 2024

Many exhibit the rich sense of atmosphere, chiaroscuro lighting, and preoccupation with the dark side of human nature that would become so prevalent in the 1940s. —Jim Hemphill, IndieWire, 15 Oct. 2024

Days Without End by Sebastian Barry (2016) ‘Days Without End’ by Sebastian Barry $19 $26 now 27% off This novel deals with one of Irish literature’s enduring preoccupations: the search for a better life in America. —Tomi Obaro, Vulture, 21 Nov. 2024

Surely this grafts the preoccupations of a later era onto her eighteenth-century life. —Adam Gopnik, The New Yorker, 28 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1572, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing preoccupation

• self-preoccupation