concerning

/kənˈsɜːnɪŋ/ formal

Say it: kun-SUR-ning

1. preposition On the subject of; about; in relation to.
She has some questions concerning the new company policy.
2. adjective Causing worry or anxiety.
The latest poll numbers are very concerning for the incumbent.
3. verb Present participle of concern; affecting or involving.
This is a legal matter concerning all members of the board.

📖 Seen in the wild

The committee discussed several issues concerning the new budget.
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✏️ concerning in a sentence

The CEO released a statement concerning the recent data breach.
I am writing to you concerning the job opening in your department.
There is a growing debate concerning the use of artificial intelligence in art.
His silence on the matter was concerning to his supporters.
The new regulations concerning international travel will take effect next month.
He had little to say concerning his past, preferring to focus on the future.
She read the letter concerning her father's will with a heavy heart.

🔁 Synonyms & antonyms

regarding about respecting in relation to apropos of as to with regard to on the subject of

regarding · a very close synonym, sometimes suggesting a more direct focus on a topic.

about · the most common and neutral equivalent, suitable for any context.

respecting · highly formal and often found in legal or official documents.

in relation to · a formal phrase that emphasizes the connection between two things.

Opposites: reassuring, comforting, encouraging

🌱 Where it comes from

The word 'concerning' comes from the verb 'concern,' which entered English from French. Its Latin root, 'concernere,' meant 'to relate to' or 'to mix,' combining 'com-' (together) and 'cernere' (to sift or distinguish). The prepositional sense we use today grew out of the verb's present participle, a common evolution where an action word becomes a word that connects ideas.

🧩 How it's used

Common patterns:

information concerningquestions concerninga letter concerningthe debate concerningrules concerningan update concerning

'Concerning' is a formal preposition that works as a direct substitute for 'about.' In casual speech or writing, 'about' is almost always the better choice to avoid sounding stiff or overly academic. Be careful not to confuse it with the phrase 'as far as... is concerned.' Say 'Concerning the report, it is finished,' not 'Concerning the report is concerned, it is finished.'

Word family: concern, concerned

💬 Quick answers

What does 'concerning' mean?

It most often means 'about' or 'relating to.' For example, 'a memo concerning office safety' is a memo about office safety. It can also mean 'worrying' when used as an adjective, as in 'a concerning development.'

What is the difference between 'concerning' and 'regarding'?

They are very similar formal synonyms for 'about' and are often interchangeable. 'Regarding' can feel slightly more focused on a single point, while 'concerning' can introduce a broader subject, but the difference is minor.

Is 'concerning' a formal word?

Yes, when used as a preposition meaning 'about,' 'concerning' is considered formal. In casual, everyday conversation, using the word 'about' is much more common and sounds more natural.

Can you start a sentence with 'concerning'?

Yes, it is grammatically correct to start a sentence with 'concerning.' For example: 'Concerning your proposal, the committee has decided to approve it.'

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