Concerning is a small word in English that can really confuse learners and even native speakers, because it carries multiple meanings and nuances. When I first started learning it, I found that deciding whether to treat it as an adjective or a preposition can be tricky. My personal tip is to break it down into its functional aspects: one aspect shows worry or alarm, while another points to a context or topic, helping you confidently use it in writing and speech.
In practical terms, the usage of concerning depends on context. When it carries the sense of worry, it acts as an adjective, like in “The rising temperatures are concerning.” When it introduces a subject, it functions as a preposition, for example: “Concerning your report, I have suggestions.” This distinction allows a guide to show students common mistakes while showing examples of correct placement in both formal and informal English.
Even advanced learners can sometimes mix these aspects because the word is versatile. A guide that breaks the word into its meanings, usage, and synonyms can transform understanding. By highlighting each aspect and offering practical examples, you can apply concerning confidently in writing, speech, and everyday communication, making English feel more natural and precise.
Understanding the Word ‘Concerning’
At its core, “concerning” has two primary functions in English:
- As an adjective, it describes something that causes worry or alarm.
- As a preposition, it points to a subject, topic, or matter being discussed.
The subtlety lies in context. For instance, in the sentence “The rising temperatures are concerning”, the word expresses worry. Meanwhile, “Concerning your application, we have reviewed all documents” uses it to indicate a topic.
Origins and Historical Usage
The word “concerning” stems from Middle English, derived from the combination of “con” (with) and “cernere” (to sift, discern, or separate). Over centuries, it evolved to reflect either worry or reference to a subject. Understanding this background can clarify why it often appears in formal writing.
Concerning as an Adjective
When used as an adjective, concerning means worrisome, troubling, or alarming. It conveys emotional weight, often in response to news, situations, or observations.
Examples of Concerning as an Adjective
- The patient’s sudden drop in blood pressure is concerning.
- It’s concerning that traffic accidents have doubled this year.
- Her lack of response to the warning signs is concerning.
Common Mistakes
- Using concerning when you mean “about” or “regarding.”
- ❌ I read a book concerning history. (Incorrect as an adjective)
- ✅ I read a book concerning World War II. (Correct as preposition)
- Overusing it in casual conversation. It often feels formal or academic when misapplied.
Tips for Mastery
- Reserve is used as an adjective for situations that genuinely cause worry or attention.
- Consider alternatives for everyday speech: worrisome, troubling, alarming, worrying.
Concerning a Preposition
As a preposition, concerning acts similarly to about or regarding, referring to a topic or subject. This usage is more common in formal writing and professional communication.
Examples of Concerning as a Preposition
- Concerning the new policy, employees should submit feedback by Friday.
- We received several inquiries concerning the product’s warranty.
- The report concerning climate change highlights urgent actions.
Common Mistakes
- Confusing it with concerning as an adjective.
- ❌ The news concerning is alarming. (Incorrect)
- ✅ The news is concerning. (Correct adjective usage)
- Replacing about with concerning in casual speech may sound stiff:
- ❌ I read a book concerning gardening.
- ✅ I read a book about gardening. (Natural and conversational)
Tips for Mastery
- Use concerning as a preposition in formal writing, like reports, emails, or essays.
- For everyday communication, about or regarding may sound more natural.
Pronunciation and Spelling
Proper pronunciation and spelling ensure your audience understands you clearly.
- Pronunciation: /kənˈsɜːrnɪŋ/
- Common Mispronunciations: con-curring, con-sir-ing
- Spelling Tips:
- Always remember the “-ing” ending.
- Check that it is not confused with “concerned” (adjective) or “concerns” (plural noun).
Meaning and Nuances
The meaning of concerning changes based on context, tone, and part of speech.
When Concerning Means Troubling
- Signals worry, urgency, or alarm.
- Often used in medical, safety, or business contexts.
- Example: It’s concerning that sales dropped 20% this quarter.
When Concerning Points to a Subject
- Signals that a topic is being referenced.
- Common in formal writing.
- Example: Concerning your application, we will respond by Monday.
Contextual Sensitivity
- Tone and placement matter: “Concerning the delay, we apologize” is neutral.
- “The delay is concerning” carries emotional weight and urgency.
How to Use Concerning in Sentences
Everyday Written English
- Concerning the upcoming conference, all attendees must register by Friday.
- The data concerning climate change is alarming.
Everyday Spoken English
- “Concerning your schedule, do you want to meet tomorrow?”
- “The decline in attendance is concerning.”
Formal vs Informal Usage
- Formal: Concerning often replaces about or regarding.
- Informal: Using about is usually preferred.
Synonyms for Concerning
Choosing the right synonym depends on the part of speech and context.
| Usage Type | Meaning | Example | Synonyms |
| Adjective | Worrisome / Troubling | The results are concerning | Worrisome, alarming, troubling, distressing |
| Preposition | Regarding / About | Concerning your query, please see below | Regarding, about, relating to, on the topic of |
Tips for Selecting Synonyms
- As an adjective, pick a word that reflects the intensity of worry.
- As a preposition, match formality with context: regarding is more formal than about.
Common Misunderstandings
Even advanced speakers confuse concerning with related terms.
Concerning vs Disconcerting
- Concerning: Can indicate worry or reference to a topic.
- Disconcerting: Always implies unease or disturbance.
- Example: It’s disconcerting to hear conflicting reports.
Concerning vs About / Regarding
- Use about in casual settings.
- Reserve concerning and regarding formal writing.
Context Matters
- Misinterpretation often arises from ignoring surrounding words:
- The situation concerning the project is serious (neutral)
- The situation is concerning (alarming)
Advanced Tips for Mastery
Using Concerning in Complex Sentences
- Concerning the ongoing market trends, it is concerning that investments have stalled.
Stylistic Considerations
- In academic papers, concerns add professionalism.
- In casual texts, overuse can feel stiff.
Avoiding Overuse
- Alternate with synonyms to maintain natural flow.
- Combine with adjectives or prepositional phrases for precision.
Quick Reference Table
| Function | Meaning | Example Sentence | Synonyms |
| Adjective | Worrisome / Troubling | This news is concerning | Alarming, troubling, worrisome |
| Preposition | Regarding / About | Concerning your proposal, we approve | Regarding about, on the topic of |
Related Common Confusions
English has many similar-sounding words. Here are common ones related to clarity and usage:
- One-off vs One of: One-off is unique; one of indicates inclusion.
- Better vs Bettor: Better = superior, bettor = one who bets.
- Sense vs Cents vs Scents vs Since: Homophones causing frequent mix-ups.
- Brews vs Bruise: Brews = drinks, bruise = injury.
- Shiv: A sharp weapon; example: He carried a shiv in the story.
Tip: Homophones are often misunderstood in both writing and conversation. Learning them improves precision.
Case Study: Concerning Professional Communication
Scenario: A company sends an internal report about declining quarterly revenue.
- Incorrect: The revenue report is alarming.
- Correct Adjective Use: The revenue decline is concerning.
- Correct Preposition Use: Concerning the revenue report, management will hold a meeting.
Observation: Adjective usage expresses emotional concern, while prepositional usage references a topic. Mixing these creates confusion.
Quotes About Clarity in Language
“The difference between the right word and the almost right word is the difference between lightning and a lightning bug.” – Mark Twain
This quote reminds us that precision matters. Using correct grammar correctly prevents misunderstandings and improves professional communication.
Conclusion
Mastering the word “concerning” unlocks a higher level of clarity and precision in both written and spoken English. While it might appear simple at first glance, its dual nature—as an adjective and a preposition—often confuses learners and even experienced speakers. As an adjective, concerning communicates worry, alarm, or attention, signaling situations that require focus. For instance, statements like “The sudden rise in unemployment is concerning” immediately convey urgency and concern. In contrast, its role as a preposition points to a topic or subject, as in “Concerning the upcoming project, please submit your updates by Friday”. Understanding this distinction is crucial because misusing it can make communication sound awkward, ambiguous, or overly formal.
Context plays a pivotal role in deciding how and when to use concerning. Tone, audience, and sentence structure all influence meaning. In formal writing, especially reports, emails, and essays, using concerning as a preposition demonstrates professionalism. In informal speech, however, replacing it with about or regarding often feels more natural and conversational. Similarly, when expressing worry, alternative adjectives like worrisome, troubling, or alarming can convey intensity while keeping your writing varied and engaging.
In addition to context, careful attention to common mistakes ensures precise usage. Many confuse concerning with disconcerting, about, or other synonyms. Others overuse it in casual settings, making their speech sound stiff. Regular practice, analyzing sentence examples, and referring to quick-reference tables can improve accuracy and confidence. Incorporating correctly not only sharpens your vocabulary but also enhances readability, making your communication more effective.
Ultimately, mastering concerning requires more than memorizing definitions; it demands understanding nuances, practicing in context, and choosing appropriate synonyms. With deliberate practice, you can confidently use correct grammar in everyday conversations, formal communications, and academic writing, striking the perfect balance between precision, clarity, and natural flow.
FAQs
Is “concerning” formal or informal?
“Concerning” can be both, but context matters. As a preposition, it’s more formal, often used in emails, reports, and essays. In casual conversation, “about” or “regarding” is preferred because “concerning” may sound stiff. As an adjective, it conveys worry or alarm, suitable in both formal and informal settings depending on tone. For instance, “The data is concerning” works in a business report, while “Your sudden absence is concerning” works in casual speech. Understanding context ensures correct usage without sounding awkward.
What is the difference between “concerning” and “disconcerting”?
“Concerning” as an adjective indicates worry or alarm, but can also refer to a subject when used as a preposition. “Disconcerting” always implies unease, confusion, or disturbance. Example: “The delay in shipment is concerning” signals worry; “The conflicting instructions were disconcerting” emphasizes discomfort or confusion. Choosing between them depends on whether you want to express concern or highlight confusion.
Can “concerning” replace “about”?
Yes, but mostly in formal writing. As a preposition, “concerning” can replace “about” or “regarding” in professional contexts. Example: “Concerning your request, we will respond shortly” is formal and professional. In casual conversation, “about” sounds more natural: “About your request, I’ll let you know soon.” Using “concerning” informally may sound stiff or overly formal.
What are common mistakes with “concerning”?
Common errors include confusing its adjective and preposition forms, overusing it in casual speech, and misplacing it in a sentence. Some also mix it with “disconcerting” or incorrectly use it as a synonym for “about” in informal contexts. To avoid mistakes, identify whether it expresses worry (adjective) or refers to a topic (preposition), and practice using examples in different contexts.
What are good synonyms for “concerning”?
Synonyms depend on context. As an adjective: worrisome, alarming, troubling, distressing. As a preposition: about, regarding, relating to, on the topic of. Choose synonyms based on tone and formality: “alarming” works when expressing strong worry, while “regarding” suits formal professional writing. Mixing synonyms helps keep writing natural and avoids repetition.
