preoccupied

• Beschreibt den Zustand, gedanklich stark eingenommen oder in Gedanken versunken zu sein, oft wegen etwas, das Sorgen oder Unruhe bereitet.

Describes a state of being absorbed in thought, especially about something that causes worry or concern.

1. Absorbed in thoughtB2formal

   Engrossed in one's own thoughts, often to the point of being unaware of one's surroundings.

   In Gedanken versunken

   • She was so preoccupied with her worries that she didn't hear the doorbell.
   • He sat at the table, preoccupied and staring into space.
   • The professor was preoccupied with his research and forgot the appointment.

   Synonymeabsorbedengrossedintentmeditativepensiveraptthoughtful

   Antonymealertattentiveawareobservantwatchful

2. Distracted or inattentiveB2formal

   Having one's attention taken away from the present situation by other concerns.

   In Gedanken versunken

   • The driver was preoccupied with his phone and nearly caused an accident.
   • She gave a preoccupied nod, not really listening to the conversation.
   • He was too preoccupied with work to enjoy the party.

   Synonymeabsentmindedabsorbeddaydreamingdistractedengrossedinattentivemusingpensivethoughtfulunfocused

   Antonymealertattentivefocused

• Verb, das ausdrückt, dass etwas jemandes Aufmerksamkeit oder Gedanken völlig in Anspruch nimmt oder gefangen hält, oft zum Nachteil anderer Dinge.

A verb used to indicate the act of engaging or absorbing someone's attention or mind completely, often to the exclusion of other matters.

1. Engage attentionB2formal

   To completely absorb or engross someone's interest or thoughts, often in a way that excludes other things.

   Aufmerksamkeit in Anspruch nehmen

   • The upcoming exam preoccupied her mind for weeks.
   • His work constantly preoccupies him, leaving little time for hobbies.
   • The mystery of the missing painting preoccupied the detective.

   Synonymeabsorbconsumedistractengageengrossgripimmersemonopolizeobsessoccupy

   Antonymedisregardignoreneglect

2. Occupy beforehandC1formal

   To take possession of or occupy something in advance, before another person or event.

   Im Voraus besetzen

   • The new tenant preoccupied the apartment before the lease officially started.
   • The team preoccupied the meeting room for their private discussion.
   • The land was preoccupied by settlers before the survey was completed.

   Synonymepreemptprepossess