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
    2015-05-18T07:53:38+00:00

    I stand corrected. I tried it and it worked, and now I have lost an important document.

    This must have been done in some update some time because this was definitely not the case a while back, I know how to "Shift+Del" and did use it in my past experiences with computers.

    Thank You.

    P.S. Joking about the lost document

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  2. Anonymous
    2015-05-18T08:29:20+00:00

    delete... wow, that is a super cool feature !

    and what about saving the changes we made ?

    the only not-a-good-solution is to save as... / delete the original file / rename the file saved as...

    that is called unprofessional.

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  3. Anonymous
    2015-05-18T08:48:01+00:00

    Mystere - I think you've forgotten what the thread subject is about " can't delete file because file is in use" 

    when these threads are to help each other not bark down someone - if you need help ASK don't bark  especially when you don't have a clue what you are talking about.

    The topic was about deleting a file when the file is in use by preview. The solution was provided !

    Your questions do not make sense if you need help firstly look at the relevant thread or alternatively ask the right questions.

    PS: Vicro225 was only joking about having lost a document.

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  4. Anonymous
    2015-05-18T09:04:33+00:00

    barking down someone ? I am not.

    Are you ?

    I made a mistake while answering, I didn't want to relate to Vicro's post.

    I intended to be ironic with the super cool feature, which seems obvious to me.

    can't delete file in because file is in use is very close to can't save file because file is in use.

    both could likely be a consequence of the same issue : can't edit file because file is in use.

    have a great day.

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