can't delete file because file is in use

Anonymous
2013-02-22T12:34:36+00:00

So whenever I'm in a file explorer window and I want to delete a file(eg PDF) I get a "File in use" message.

I've figured out that this is caused by the preview pane. No preview pane no message and the file deletes.

I want to know how I can delete a file with the preview pane active because I want to check the contents to make sure it's the correct file I want to delete?

Windows for home | Previous Windows versions | Files, folders, and storage

Locked Question. This question was migrated from the Microsoft Support Community. You can vote on whether it's helpful, but you can't add comments or replies or follow the question.

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Anonymous
2017-06-18T21:52:58+00:00

Hi Gianluca,

This thread has been created on 2015 and was previously resolved. There has been a lot of changes since then and the resolution provided here may not be applicable anymore. Hence, we recommend you to create your own thread regarding your concern for assistance from our community.

If there's anything else, feel free to reach out to us.

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  1. Anonymous
    2015-04-24T16:59:28+00:00

    Really?  The error message says the file is in use.  It is a conflict created by using Adobe as the preview app.  I switched to Foxit pdf and have not had a problem since.

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  2. Anonymous
    2015-04-24T16:40:28+00:00

    Hello,

    As per description, you are unable to delete a file.

    If Windows is unable to not delete a file or folder, it may be due to one of the following reasons:

    1.The file or folder is being used by system processes

    2.The file to be deleted contains hidden files or folders

    3.The file or folder is set to read-only mode

    4.The file system of the hard drive contains errors

    5.The system is infected with a virus

    I would suggest you to follow the methods given below and check.

    Method 1: Try to go into safe mode and try to remove the file. Check if that helps.

    To go into safe mode refer the link given below

    Windows Startup Settings (including safe mode)

    http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-8/windows-startup-settings-safe-mode 

    If issue still persists try method 2.

    Method 2: Delete files using Disk Cleanup.

    http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/delete-files-using-disk-cleanup#delete-files-using-disk-cleanup=windows-8 

    Hope this information is helpful. Please do let us know if you need further assistance with Windows, we’ll be glad to assist you.

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  3. Anonymous
    2015-04-18T17:50:28+00:00

    That's because Microsoft and Adobe both suck!

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  4. Anonymous
    2015-04-18T02:02:23+00:00

    when u click delete it will say file in use and want you to skip or cancel or try again...try just clicking "try again" as many as you can~i click about 10+ times then delete it~

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