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

“That makes it all the more concerning for those using weight-loss drugs in an ad hoc or unregistered way.”

From The Wall Street Journal • May 17, 2026

One reason apical infections are especially concerning is that they are often difficult to detect.

From Science Daily • May 16, 2026

Waitt noted he wasn't aware of any of the allegations concerning her until she was charged in 2020 - about 10 years after their relationship ended.

From BBC • May 14, 2026

He isn’t putting up Hogwarts trailer numbers, but those polls are good indicators of a general nonchalance concerning the harm that famous people do.

From Salon • May 14, 2026

For one thing, I was certain its body of knowledge concerning plane curves, angles, and polygons would help me design my rockets.

From "October Sky" by Homer Hickam