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

In his resignation statement, he said he wanted to focus on fighting "factually incorrect and entirely false, decades-old allegations" concerning his personal life, describing the investigation by Panorama and the Times as "fundamentally unfair".

From BBC • Jun. 9, 2026

The International Atomic Energy Agency said it was dispatching a team to inspect the damage, calling the incident "deeply concerning".

From Barron's • Jun. 7, 2026

These organisms, known as free living amoebae, are found in water and soil, but scientists say some species are becoming increasingly concerning as the world warms and water systems age.

From Science Daily • Jun. 6, 2026

Citizenship and Immigration Services’ sudden release of a memo concerning the processing of green-card applications filed within the United States.

From Slate • Jun. 5, 2026

Vasiljevic’s plans concerning Bobby always contained ulterior motives.

From "Endgame" by Frank Brady