occupied
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˈɒkjʊpaɪd/
KK: /ɑˈkjʊpaɪd/
adjective
Definition
Being busy or unavailable because someone is using or has taken a space or resource.
Example
The meeting room is occupied, so we need to find another place to discuss our project.
Conversation
Are you free to hang out later?
I wish I could, but I'm occupied with work.
Oh, I understand. Maybe we can plan for the weekend instead?
That sounds good! I should be less occupied by then.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
busy
engaged
reserved
Antonyms
vacant
available
free
verb
Definition
To take up space or time, or to be in a place.
Example
The room was occupied by a large table and several chairs.
Tense Forms
Past: occupied
Past Participle: occupied
Conversation
Hey, did you see if the meeting room is occupied?
I just checked, and it seems to be empty right now.
Great! Let’s grab it before someone else does.
Root Explanation
Occupied → It is formed from "occupare" (meaning to seize or take possession of) and the past participle suffix "-ed" (indicating a completed action). The word "occupied" means to have taken possession of or to be in use.
Memory Tip
Think of someone who has 'seized' ('occupare') a space or place, which helps you remember that 'occupied' means that space is taken or in use.
Visually Confused Words
unoccupied
preoccupied
unoccupiedly