concerning
8 synonyms and 0 antonyms for concerning, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Prep — About; regarding; on the subject of.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Etymology
From concern plus -ing; the preposition and adjective both grew out of the verb's meaning.
Full origin of concerning →Frequently asked questions
What does “concerning” mean?
The word “concerning” means about; regarding; on the subject of. In plain terms, as a preposition it means "about"; as an adjective it means "worrying.".
How do you pronounce “concerning”?
“Concerning” is pronounced kuhn-SUR-nihng (/kənˈsɝnɪŋ/ in IPA).
How do you use “concerning” in a sentence?
Here is “concerning” used in a sentence: “She had questions concerning the new policy.”
What is another word for “concerning”?
Words with a similar meaning to “concerning” include alarming and worrisome.
What part of speech is “concerning”?
Depending on how it is used, “concerning” can be a preposition and an adjective.
Is “concerning” a common word?
“Concerning” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “concerning” have?
“Concerning” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: about; regarding; on the subject of.
What is the difference between 'concerning' and 'regarding'?
As prepositions, 'concerning' and 'regarding' both mean 'about' or 'on the subject of' and are largely interchangeable in formal writing. 'Regarding' is slightly more common in business and correspondence, while 'concerning' can sound a touch more formal or old-fashioned.
When should you use 'concerning' instead of 'about'?
'Concerning' is more formal than 'about' and suits official letters, reports, and academic writing, as in 'questions concerning the budget.' In everyday conversation, 'about' is usually the more natural choice.
Is it correct to use 'concerning' to mean worrying?
Yes, 'concerning' is now widely accepted as an adjective meaning causing worry, as in 'the results are concerning.' This usage has become common in modern English, though some traditional style guides still prefer 'worrying' or 'troubling.'