be preoccupied
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The turnover has led to rapid elevations for some commanders who are less experienced and are likely to be preoccupied with stabilizing morale and enforcing loyalty across the rank and file.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jan. 28, 2026
The work will require volunteers, many of whom will be preoccupied by their own losses, Wardlaw acknowledged, but he sees the work ahead as a tiny act of defiance against all the fire’s terrible destruction.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jan. 15, 2025
“And when you do that, you can’t be preoccupied anymore about, ‘Oh my God, I feel so horrible.’”
From Seattle Times ● Jun. 16, 2023
“He’ll be preoccupied with matters of state,” Ritchie said.
From New York Times ● Sep. 23, 2022
“Will you please stop talking about imprisonment? You seem to be preoccupied with the thought. Actually, you seem to enjoy thinking about it. Martyrdom is meaningless in our age.”
From "A Confederacy of Dunces" by John Kennedy Toole
