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.

0 comments
Answer accepted by question author
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.

Was this answer helpful?

20+ people found this answer helpful.
0 comments

140 additional answers

Sort by: Newest
Most helpful Newest Oldest
  1. Anonymous
    2017-02-02T00:39:40+00:00

    My solution is in Windows 10 and using Acrobat DC. (shift button did not work for me)

    In Acrobat, under preferences. Go to General Menu. Than Select the option, "Enable PDF thumbnail previews in Windows Explorer".

    Then turn on Extra large icons for the folder and turn off the preview pane.

    If you don't need to read the file and there are generic markers on the page (like logos) to know about deleting, this works great. If you have to actually read, this kinda bites.

    Let me know if this was helpful.

    Was this answer helpful?

    0 comments
  2. Anonymous
    2017-01-04T10:41:13+00:00

    Simply hold the shift button down while pressing delete. This will delete the file even though it is open in preview.

    Can't figure out why Microsoft doesn't sugest this!!

    So it is definitely not a major issue to change for microsoft.

    Was this answer helpful?

    0 comments
  3. Anonymous
    2016-12-21T10:32:53+00:00

    Hi,

    I tried this and still get the same error. What else could you recommend?

    Cheers

    Was this answer helpful?

    0 comments
  4. Anonymous
    2016-12-10T16:38:05+00:00

    I had a Soda PDF (Not Adobe) on my desktop that I couldn't delete.   I went to Settings, Programs, clicked on Soda where it gave me the option to uninstall or change.  I clicked on change and it repaired whatever was wrong.  I was then able to delete the PDF.

    Was this answer helpful?

    0 comments