OneDrive File Issues

How to Delete Word Files in Microsoft 365 or OneDrive

Maira Mehtab Sep 22, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user needs to delete a Microsoft Word file but receives an error stating the file cannot be deleted because it is currently open or in use.

Product: Microsoft Word / OneDrive
Device & OS: Windows
Scenario: Attempting to delete a local or cloud-synchronized Microsoft Word document via File Explorer.
Observed behavior: Windows prevents the file deletion, displaying a prompt that the document or Microsoft Word is still using the file, often caused by background processes or active OneDrive synchronization.

Before you start

Verify that you have saved any necessary changes in your Word document before proceeding to force-close the application or delete the file.

Solution 1Recommended

Close Microsoft Word and Delete the File via File Explorer

Fix the 'file in use' error by fully terminating Microsoft Word processes before attempting to delete the file locally.

Windows restricts the deletion of any file that is currently being read or written by an application. Ensuring that Microsoft Word is completely closed will release the lock on the file.

Close the Document

Save your work, close the specific Word document you want to delete, and exit the Microsoft Word application completely.

End Background Processes

If the error persists, press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager, locate any background 'Microsoft Word' processes, right-click them, and select 'End task'.

Delete via File Explorer

Open Windows File Explorer, navigate to the folder containing your Word file, right-click the file, and select 'Delete'.

Restarting Windows: If the file still refuses to delete after force-closing Word, restart your computer to clear any lingering background locks and try deleting it again upon reboot.

Solution 2

Delete the File Directly from OneDrive Online

Bypass local Windows synchronization locks by deleting the file directly from your cloud storage interface.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Switch to WPS Office for a Seamless Document Experience

Tired of dealing with complicated file locks, heavy background processes, and sync issues in Microsoft 365? WPS Office offers a lightweight, highly compatible, and free alternative to manage your documents without the hassle.

1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the free installer for Windows.
2. Install WPS Office: Run the downloaded executable file and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.
3. Open Your Documents: Double-click your existing .docx files to open them seamlessly in WPS Writer.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Word formats (.docx, .doc).Lightweight software architecture that minimizes background process freezing and file locking issues.Familiar user interface requiring zero learning curve for a seamless migration.Built-in cloud storage options for easy, conflict-free synchronization.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Windows say my Word file is open when I have already closed it?

This typically occurs if Microsoft Word failed to shut down properly and is still running as a hidden background process, or if a cloud service like OneDrive is actively scanning or syncing the file. Ending the process via Task Manager usually resolves this.

Can I recover a Word document I deleted from OneDrive?

Yes. Files deleted from OneDrive are sent to the OneDrive Recycle Bin. You can recover them by signing into onedrive.live.com, navigating to the Recycle Bin on the left sidebar, and selecting 'Restore' on your deleted file within 30 days.

How do I temporarily stop OneDrive from locking my files?

You can pause OneDrive synchronization to release file locks. Click the OneDrive cloud icon in your Windows taskbar, click the gear (Settings) icon, select 'Pause syncing', and choose a timeframe (e.g., 2 hours). You should then be able to delete or move the file locally.

Document & File Issues