noun
preoccupation
pree-ahk-yuh-PAY-shuhn/priˌɑːkjuˈpeɪʃn/
Absorption in a concern that occupies much of one's attention.
Her preoccupation with the sickly plant keeps her from noticing the offered tea.
Etymology
Originally a seizing beforehand, preoccupation came to mean prior mental absorption. The image is of attention already taken possession of by one concern.
In context
Her principal preoccupation was her suspicion of the man-servant, based on seeing him listening at the door. She was very voluble and excited
More examples
- His preoccupation with work leaves little time for friends.
- Finding affordable housing is her main preoccupation.
- Our daily preoccupations sometimes distract us from bigger problems.
Forms
preoccupation · preoccupations
preoccupy verb — Occupy someone's attention so other things go unnoticed.
preoccupied adjective — Absorbed in thought and unaware of surroundings.
Similar words
- absorption
- Emphasizes deep involvement, without necessarily involving worry or concern.
- distraction
- Emphasizes attention diverted away from the current task.
- obsession
- Suggests a more persistent concern that is difficult to control.