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
For scholars, the importance of the gems lies not just in their beauty but also in the light their iconography sheds on ancient concerns and preoccupations.
—
Rebecca Mead, The New Yorker, 6 May 2024
Moreover, people-pleasing can also be understood as the preoccupation and subsequent avoidance of other people’s disappointment and displeasure at the risk of one’s own needs, inconveniences, and/ or negative consequences.
—Dominique Fluker, Essence, 2 May 2024
See all Example Sentences for preoccupation 
Rebecca Mead, The New Yorker, 6 May 2024
Moreover, people-pleasing can also be understood as the preoccupation and subsequent avoidance of other people’s disappointment and displeasure at the risk of one’s own needs, inconveniences, and/ or negative consequences.
—Dominique Fluker, Essence, 2 May 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 16 May. 2024.
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