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

Because methane is such a powerful greenhouse gas, this sets up a concerning cycle.

From Science Daily • Apr. 16, 2026

“Of course, it’s concerning to watch the news, and you can’t help but feel terribly sorry for people who are exposed to all these terrible things,” Hagen said.

From Barron's • Apr. 15, 2026

During talks in Pakistan, the U.S. asked Iran to agree not to enrich uranium for 20 years, people familiar with the matter said, softening previous demands concerning Tehran’s nuclear program.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 14, 2026

"Conditions were especially concerning in the paediatric emergency room," the report says – this is one of the departments BBC Eye filmed in.

From BBC • Apr. 13, 2026

Before play began, there were mixed emotions, conflicting speculations, and assorted reactions throughout the chess world concerning the match.

From "Endgame" by Frank Brady