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

Though crowding has not yet reached a level she finds especially concerning, it can make a trade more vulnerable when investors try to exit at the same time, she said.

From MarketWatch • May 30, 2026

So there are some concerning aspects even separate from the war.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 28, 2026

The US embassy said it had "received information concerning a potentially significant air attack that may occur at any time over the next 24 hours".

From Barron's • May 24, 2026

If there’s anything I’ve learned about the recent influx of food trends and niche products, it’s that they’re bizarre — and getting more concerning.

From Salon • May 23, 2026

That he was passionate enough to cry demonstrated his growing intensity concerning the game.

From "Endgame" by Frank Brady