occupying (B2)

verb

Pronunciation: /ˈɒkjəpaɪɪŋ/

Definition

To take control of a place, especially by military force, or to reside in or fill a space.

Examples

• The army spent months occupying the disputed territory after the invasion.

• She enjoys occupying her time with creative hobbies like painting and pottery.

• The new furniture is occupying most of the living room, leaving little space to move.

How to Use occupying

occupy oneself with (prepositional phrase)

To keep busy with an activity. — "She likes to occupy herself with gardening on weekends."

occupy a position/role (collocation)

To hold a job or office. — "He has occupied a senior position in the company for years."

occupy space (collocation)

To fill an area. — "The large sofa occupies too much space in the small apartment."

Synonyms of occupying

Words with a similar meaning to occupying:

• filling
• inhabiting
• holding
• seizing

Antonyms of occupying

Words with the opposite meaning to occupying:

• vacating
• abandoning

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