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
    2015-05-18T03:28:59+00:00

    Hi Guys - I was just reading back and am surprised that this problem has been dated back to Feb 2013 with no solution being provided by MS - its a real shame to the support staff from MS and a disgrace to have a support system that cannot provide support.

    the solution is use shift + delete which gives you an option to delete permanently, hence no need to switch off preview or get new programs installed etc. Just a SIMPLE SOLUTION.

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  2. Anonymous
    2015-05-17T01:32:48+00:00

    I couldn't agree more to all the frustration.  Another example of poor design.

    I know this has been addressed with several of the many and frequent updates issued but I still run across this very annoying and poorly executed example of software design.....today it's just annoying enough to vent once again

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  3. Anonymous
    2015-05-02T22:52:15+00:00

    Really? That's it? I've posted this issue in 2013. Not everyone can go and use other PDF readers as they wish.

    The problem is not solved yet.

    It has nothing to do with safe mode or anti virus software or whatever else you can think of.

    It is a bug in the programming of either Adobe Reader or Windows or both.

    In previous versions of Windows this was not an issue.

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  4. Anonymous
    2015-05-02T14:51:40+00:00

    Hello,  

    We are glad to know that you were able to resolve this issue. Your efforts to work on this issue is greatly appreciated.

    Please feel free to reply, in case you face any other issues with Windows in future. We'll be glad to assist you.

    Thank you.

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