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
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
Everett draws on dozens of recent studies that point to languages’ deeply divergent ways of handling time, space, and relationships, among other central human preoccupations, and to how these may linger in minds and cultures beyond the moment of speech.
—
Ross Perlin, Foreign Affairs, 23 Apr. 2024
But due to Carter’s preoccupation, the state and local governments shouldered the burden of the crisis.
—David Smiley, Miami Herald, 17 Apr. 2024
See all Example Sentences for preoccupation 
Ross Perlin, Foreign Affairs, 23 Apr. 2024
But due to Carter’s preoccupation, the state and local governments shouldered the burden of the crisis.
—David Smiley, Miami Herald, 17 Apr. 2024
See all Example Sentences for preoccupation
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'preoccupation.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near preoccupation
Cite this Entry
“Preoccupation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/preoccupation. Accessed 5 May. 2024.
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