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

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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
    2014-04-11T19:27:56+00:00

    That's helpful but the problem is broader than deleting. There is no "force rename" equivalent but you most certainly cannot rename a pdf if the preview window is open. You also cannot move a PDF that has an active preview. The annoying "Try Again/Skip" dialog just adds insult to injury. Windows 8.1 is unbelievably bizarre and there are so many file system issues I find it hard to believe they actually tested much of the code.

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  2. Anonymous
    2014-03-11T21:06:38+00:00

    You can delete any PDF file by pressing SHIFT+DEL. 

    Be careful - the file will be deleted permanently, it will not appear in your Recycle Bin.

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  3. Anonymous
    2014-03-01T18:16:36+00:00

    I actually have NEVER had this issue until Windows 8.  The file in preview is technically like a thumbnail and should be "soft" opened (no lock) so that it can be deleted.  However, a simple fix could look like this.

    Sample pseudo code

    If file in use has a lock

     If it is me

      release lock

      delete file

      refresh window

     else

       report locked by another process

     endif

    endif

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  4. Anonymous
    2014-02-27T19:07:58+00:00

    Microsoft must have a policy were a complaint is not addressed unless it gets a million hits on a blog or something, this was a problem when I had windows 7, so don't expect a  fix anytime soon.  On my 8.1 PC it happens randomly with any file that is previewed...  The only fix is to turn preview off!!!!!!

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