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
    2013-10-10T17:07:53+00:00

    I am having the same problem (can't delete previewed files), but I have it only with pdf fails.

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  2. Anonymous
    2013-05-26T16:37:40+00:00

    I have Windows 8 and have also been frustrated with not being able to delete a file that I am previewing.  I just stumbled into a workaround.

    Cancel the "Can't delete because in use" message.  At that point the file will be selected and the preview pane will indicate that the file can't be previewed because it is in use.  Right click on the file and select delete and it will be deleted.

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  3. Anonymous
    2013-03-07T11:36:15+00:00

    Yes this is the case with all preview files. I was using pdf as an example.

    Hopefully we can get an answer soon.

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  4. Anonymous
    2013-02-23T03:48:18+00:00

    Hi,

    Thank you for posting your question on Microsoft Community!

    After going through your post, it appears that you have an issue with deleting the PDF files. However, in order to guide you in the right direction; I will need some more information. Please help me by answering the questions mentioned below.

    1.      Do you face any issue while deleting the other files?

    2.      Which antivirus application are you using?

    In-order to fix the deleting the PDF files, you may try these methods.

    Method 1:

    Keep the computer in clean boot and check the issue status.

    How to perform a clean boot to troubleshoot a problem in Windows Vista, Windows 7, or Windows 8.

    http://support.microsoft.com/kb/929135

    Note: Please go through step 3 of the Kb to keep the computer in normal startup after fixing the issue.

    Method 2:

     You can view all programs that are currently running on your computer in Task Manager.

     Check if there is any process running related to the file is running. If you find any, right click on the process and end it.

    Hope this information is helpful. Please do let us know if you need assistance with Windows, we’ll be glad to assist you!

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