You receive a "Cannot delete filename" error message when you try to delete a document in Word 2002 (827552)


The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft Word 2002

SYMPTOMS

When you try to delete a Microsoft Word 2002 document (for example, in Microsoft Windows Explorer), you may receive the following error message:
Cannot delete filename: It is being used by another person or program.

Close any programs that might be using the file and try again.

CAUSE

This behavior may occur if Word determines that the owner file for the document is being used and the file is locked. For example, this problem may occur if you follow these steps:
  1. Open an existing Word document.
  2. Add a Forms object to the document. For example, add a check box from the Forms toolbar.

    Note To view the Forms toolbar, point to Toolbars on the View menu.
  3. On the Forms toolbar, click the Protect Form icon, and then save the changes to the file as a new document.
  4. In Windows Explorer, try to delete the original document (the document that you opened in step 1).
Note There may be other scenarios that can cause this issue.

WORKAROUND

To work around this problem, before you try to delete the Word document, close all other documents that are open in Word.

STATUS

Microsoft has confirmed that this is a problem in the Microsoft products that are listed in the "Applies to" section.
Modification Type:MajorLast Reviewed:2/16/2005
Keywords:kbtshoot kberrmsg kbprb KB827552 kbAudEndUser
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