Synonyms for

Occupy

Verb / ˈɑ:kjʌˌpaɪ / Another word for occupy — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to take control of a place, often using force

Synonyms & similar words

useup absorb interest reside engross worry invade engage busy fill lodgein take concern seize commandeer annex capture invade dominate govern hold possess reside settle dwell live inhabit tenant fill use employ busy

Synonyms by register

Formal

inhabit reside possess occupy

Informal

take up hang out in hang around in

Literary

sojourn dwell

Antonyms

vacate abandon leave exit yield relinquish

Common collocations

  • occupy a position
  • occupy a seat
  • occupy a building
  • occupy space
  • occupy the mind
  • occupy oneself
  • occupy a territory

Word family

noun occupation
verb occupy
adjective occupied
adverb occupedly

Usage note

Can refer to living in a place, holding a position, or filling a space. Be mindful of context to avoid ambiguity, especially when referring to military occupation.

Example sentences

  1. The army will occupy the enemy's territory.
  2. The students planned to occupy the school until their demands were met.
  3. The new company will occupy the building next month.
  4. The settlers will occupy the land and start farming.
  5. The band will occupy the stage for the next hour.

Quotes

  • The only way to deal with fear is to face it head-on and occupy yourself with things that interest you. - Lindsey Stirling
  • The difference between a successful person and others is not a lack of strength, not a lack of knowledge, but rather a lack of will. - Vince Lombardi
  • It is not enough to be busy... The question is: what are we busy about? - Henry David Thoreau

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words