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
    2014-01-17T12:25:22+00:00

    Thank you for your reply dalerhayes.

    totally agree with you. when you use another pdf software, you are not encounter that problem

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  2. Anonymous
    2014-01-21T21:45:59+00:00

    This issue is inexcusable ... I can't delete PDFs either ...

    It seems like developers don't care if their stuff works on win 8 ...

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  3. Anonymous
    2014-01-27T20:08:52+00:00

    I was able to delete PDFs that would previously not delete by simply:

    1. Right clicking on the file in question.
    2. Clicking Properties.
    3. In the General tab, click Unblock on the bottom right of the properties window, then press Ok.
    4. Delete the file like normal.

    I am running Windows 8.1 so I am not sure if this will work for everyone, but it worked for me.

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  4. Anonymous
    2014-01-28T05:59:16+00:00

    Hi Michael,

    Thank you for sharing resolution here, this might help others.

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