Synonyms of preoccupation

preoccupation

noun

(ˌ)prē-ˌä-kyə-ˈpā-shən 

as in obsession

something about which one is constantly thinking or concerned

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

• obsession
• problem
• fascination
• fixation
• enthusiasm
• fetish
• mania
• prepossession
• idée fixe
• thirst
• monomania
• longing
• desire
• compulsion
• infatuation
• craving
• trip
• tendency
• hunger
• appetite
• yearning
• complex
• predilection
• urge
• idiosyncrasy
• proclivity
• quirk
• penchant
• lust
• passion
• predisposition
• hang-up
• propensity
• inclination
• yen
• itch
• pining
• bent
• hankering
• partiality
• drive
• disposition
• cacoëthes
• leaning

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• indifference
• disregard
• apathy
• nonchalance
• unconcern
• insouciance
• disinterestedness
• unconcernedness

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of preoccupation

That preoccupation with time has also led to a long-running collaboration with Hamilton, which has worked with Nolan on several films. — Anthony Demarco, Forbes.com, 21 July 2026

In fact, this preoccupation is the secret theme of these sun-and-sand songs. — Kelefa Sanneh, New Yorker, 19 July 2026

This is consistent with the film’s overarching preoccupation with greed, which here takes the form of gluttony. — Natasha O'Neill, Vanity Fair, 16 July 2026

Among this group, it is characterized by a difficulty controlling phone use, heavy social media dependence, having a preoccupation with notifications and voicing distress when separated from their device. — Elizabeth Dowdell, Fortune, 15 July 2026