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

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

More concerning for policymakers, core inflation—which excludes volatile food and energy prices—also picked up, suggesting higher energy costs are beginning to spill over into other prices.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 4, 2026

A joint statement from the EU and UN missions and British embassy said the clashes were "deeply concerning".

From Barron's • Jun. 4, 2026

That is the reason of his coming; it is concerning Lucy and her sleep-walking, and not about Jonathan.

From "Dracula" by Bram Stoker