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

"Write-in responses showed that consumers continued to be preoccupied with rising prices in general, and for groceries and gasoline in particular," said Dana Peterson, chief economist at The Conference Board in Washington.

From Reuters • Sep. 26, 2023

“If he has been arrested and there is no explanation from the top, one can imagine his subordinates might be preoccupied with their own safety not the war.”

From New York Times • Jun. 29, 2023

“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

Dustfinger pretended to be preoccupied with pulling a loose thread from his coat sleeve.

From "Inkheart" by Cornelia Funke