Part of Speech

Preposition, Adjective

Pronunciation

/kənˈsɜːnɪŋ/ (UK), /kənˈsɜːrnɪŋ/ (US)

Definitions

• Preposition: Relating to, about, or concerning; used to indicate the subject of something.
• Adjective: Causing concern; worrying or alarming.

Usage Examples

• "The report concerning the new policy was published today."
• "There were many concerning issues raised in the meeting."
• "His actions were concerning to his colleagues."

Etymology

The word "concerning" comes from the Old French word "concerner," which derived from the Latin "concernere," meaning "to sift together" or "to mingle." Over time, the word evolved to indicate involvement or connection with a particular subject or issue. As a preposition, "concerning" was used in English in the early 14th century, referring to things that were of interest or importance to someone. The adjective form has been used since the 16th century, often implying concern or worry.

Synonyms

• Regarding
• About
• With regard to
• Relating to
• On the subject of
• Touching on

Antonyms

• Unrelated
• Irrelevant
• Unconcerned
• Detached
• Indifferent

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In British English, "concerning" is pronounced with a non-rhotic accent, where the "r" sound is less emphasized compared to American English.
• In American English, the pronunciation typically places more emphasis on the "r" sound, making it sound closer to /kənˈsɜːrnɪŋ/.

Historical Usage

Historically, the term "concerning" was primarily used in the context of formal communication to introduce subjects or topics of discussion. It has been used since the 14th century in both written and spoken English, largely in the sense of relating or referring to a particular matter. Over the centuries, it has gained more prominence in both legal and administrative language, where it is used to indicate the subject matter of documents and proceedings.

Cultural Nuances

In different cultures, the use of "concerning" can carry varied implications. In some cultures, the use of this term may reflect a heightened sensitivity to the subject matter at hand, indicating a formal or serious tone. In other contexts, particularly in legal or bureaucratic settings, "concerning" is often used to maintain a neutral or detached stance when discussing potentially contentious issues.

More Information

"Concerning" serves as both a preposition and an adjective, with its versatility contributing to its use in a variety of contexts. As a preposition, it introduces subjects of concern, while as an adjective, it indicates something that causes worry or alarm. The evolution of the word highlights its adaptability in the English language, reflecting both formal and emotional associations. Understanding the usage of "concerning" is essential in both everyday conversations and in professional or legal contexts where clarity is paramount.