concerning

American  

[kuhn-sur-ning] / kənˈsɜr nɪŋ /

preposition

1. relating to; regarding; about.

   We attended a discussion concerning foreign aid.

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adjective

1. causing concern, worry, or anxiety.

   The increase in unlicensed practitioners is concerning.

   The more concerning elements of the sport were swept under the rug.

concerning British  

/ kənˈsɜːnɪŋ /

preposition

1. about; regarding; on the subject of

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adjective

1. worrying or troublesome

Etymology

Origin of concerning

First recorded in 1375–1425; concern ( def. ) + -ing ² ( def. )

Compare meaning

How does concerning compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• disconcerting vs. concerning

Example Sentences

"We are still awaiting clarification regarding the reasons for this decision, particularly in light of certain unanswered questions concerning US contributions," union chief Severine Deboos told AFP.

From Barron's • Apr. 24, 2026

But Lee marbles other theories and indictments into his meat concerning the privilege of extreme emotion and behavioral honesty.

From Salon • Apr. 23, 2026

Perhaps most concerning is the atmosphere within the leadership group.

From BBC • Apr. 22, 2026

After a three-week-long rally that’s brought the S&P 500 to new record highs, investors are again bracing for uncertainty following a whirlwind of weekend developments concerning the war with Iran.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 19, 2026

Here were two of the unequivocally original patriarchs, declaring that their respective understandings of the Revolution’s legacy concerning slavery were fundamentally different.

From "Founding Brothers: The Revolutionary Generation" by Joseph J. Ellis