The preposition “concerning” is a versatile word that adds precision and formality to your writing and speech. Understanding its nuances and proper usage is crucial for clear communication.
This article provides a comprehensive guide to “concerning,” exploring its definition, structural patterns, varied uses, and common pitfalls. Whether you’re an English language learner or a seasoned writer, this resource will equip you with the knowledge and practice to confidently incorporate “concerning” into your vocabulary.
This article is designed for English language learners, writers, students, and anyone looking to improve their understanding of English grammar. By the end of this guide, you will be able to use “concerning” accurately and effectively in a variety of contexts, enhancing the clarity and professionalism of your communication.
Table of Contents
- Definition of “Concerning”
- Structural Breakdown
- Usage Rules
- Sentence Examples of “Concerning”
- Common Mistakes
- Practice Exercises
- Advanced Topics
- FAQ
- Conclusion
Definition of “Concerning”
The preposition “concerning” means about or regarding. It introduces the topic or subject matter that is being discussed, written about, or considered. It is often used in formal contexts and can add a sense of seriousness or importance to the subject at hand.
Classification: “Concerning” is classified as a preposition. Prepositions are words that show the relationship between a noun or pronoun and other words in a sentence. They typically indicate location, direction, time, or, in the case of “concerning,” the subject matter.
Function: The primary function of “concerning” is to connect a noun or pronoun (often referred to as the object of the preposition) to the rest of the sentence, indicating what the sentence is about. It helps to specify the topic being addressed.
Contexts: “Concerning” is frequently used in formal writing, such as reports, legal documents, and academic papers. While it can appear in informal contexts, it is generally more common in situations where a degree of formality is desired or required. Its use can make the communication seem more official or considered.
Structural Breakdown
The basic structure involving “concerning” is quite straightforward. It typically follows this pattern:
[Main Clause] + concerning + [Noun/Noun Phrase]
Here’s a breakdown:
- Main Clause: This is the primary part of the sentence that expresses a complete thought.
- concerning: The preposition itself, linking the main clause to the subject matter.
- Noun/Noun Phrase: This is the topic or subject that the main clause is about. It’s the object of the preposition “concerning.”
For example:
I have some questions concerning the new policy.
In this sentence:
- “I have some questions” is the main clause.
- “concerning” is the preposition.
- “the new policy” is the noun phrase, the object of the preposition, indicating what the questions are about.
The noun phrase can be simple (e.g., “concerning finances”) or more complex (e.g., “concerning the long-term implications of the proposed legislation”). The key is that it clearly identifies the subject under discussion.
Usage Rules
Using “concerning” correctly involves understanding its role in a sentence and adhering to a few key rules:
- Formal Tone: “Concerning” is generally more formal than alternatives like “about” or “regarding.” Use it in situations where formality is appropriate.
- Clarity: Ensure that the noun or noun phrase following “concerning” clearly identifies the subject matter. Avoid ambiguity.
- Placement: “Concerning” typically comes after the verb in the main clause. While it can sometimes appear at the beginning of a sentence, this is less common and can sound overly formal.
- Object of the Preposition: The word or phrase that follows “concerning” must be a noun or noun phrase. It cannot be a verb or an adjective.
- Avoid Redundancy: Be mindful of redundancy. Avoid phrases like “concerning about” or “regarding concerning.”
Exceptions and Special Cases:
While “concerning” usually follows the structure outlined above, there are some variations:
- Passive Voice: In passive voice constructions, “concerning” might appear after a past participle. For example: “Issues concerning environmental regulations were addressed.”
- Beginning of Sentence: Although less common, “Concerning [topic],” can be used at the start of a sentence to introduce the subject. However, this is quite formal and should be used sparingly. For example: “Concerning the budget, we need to make some adjustments.”
Sentence Examples of “Concerning”
The best way to understand how to use “concerning” is to see it in action. The following sections provide a variety of sentence examples, categorized by context.
General Usage
These examples demonstrate the basic use of “concerning” in a variety of sentences. This table shows the usage of “concerning” in different general scenarios.
| # | Sentence |
|---|---|
| 1 | I have a question concerning the upcoming conference. |
| 2 | The report details several issues concerning workplace safety. |
| 3 | We need to discuss the matters concerning the project deadline. |
| 4 | She expressed her concerns concerning the new policy implementation. |
| 5 | The email contained important information concerning the company merger. |
| 6 | There are several points I’d like to clarify concerning your proposal. |
| 7 | The committee will review all documents concerning the application process. |
| 8 | He asked a series of questions concerning the research methodology. |
| 9 | The lawyer provided advice concerning the legal implications of the contract. |
| 10 | The article explores various aspects concerning climate change. |
| 11 | Their investigation focused on allegations concerning financial mismanagement. |
| 12 | We received numerous complaints concerning the product’s quality. |
| 13 | The board of directors will make a decision concerning the budget allocation. |
| 14 | The teacher addressed the students’ anxieties concerning the final exam. |
| 15 | The documentary raises important questions concerning ethical considerations in technology. |
| 16 | The study examines the relationship concerning diet and health. |
| 17 | The manager provided guidance concerning career development opportunities. |
| 18 | The website offers resources concerning mental health support. |
| 19 | The seminar covered topics concerning effective communication strategies. |
| 20 | The organization advocates for policies concerning environmental protection. |
| 21 | The professor lectured on theories concerning the origin of the universe. |
| 22 | The novel explores themes concerning identity and belonging. |
| 23 | The play raises questions concerning morality and justice. |
| 24 | The artist’s work reflects on issues concerning social inequality. |
| 25 | The research project investigates factors concerning student success. |
Formal Contexts
These examples are tailored for formal settings, such as business, legal, and academic writing. This table shows the usage of “concerning” in different formal scenarios.
| # | Sentence |
|---|---|
| 1 | This document outlines the regulations concerning data privacy. |
| 2 | The committee will convene to discuss matters concerning the company’s financial performance. |
| 3 | Please provide all relevant information concerning the proposed merger. |
| 4 | The contract stipulates the terms and conditions concerning intellectual property rights. |
| 5 | The report addresses key issues concerning sustainable development. |
| 6 | We require further clarification concerning the project’s scope and objectives. |
| 7 | The audit revealed several discrepancies concerning financial reporting. |
| 8 | The policy outlines the procedures concerning employee grievances. |
| 9 | The legal team is reviewing the documents concerning the lawsuit. |
| 10 | The academic paper examines the theories concerning cognitive development. |
| 11 | The board has made a decision concerning the allocation of resources. |
| 12 | The university has established guidelines concerning academic integrity. |
| 13 | The government has implemented new regulations concerning environmental protection. |
| 14 | The organization is conducting research concerning public health. |
| 15 | The foundation is providing funding for projects concerning social justice. |
| 16 | The corporation has issued a statement concerning its commitment to sustainability. |
| 17 | The institution has developed a curriculum concerning leadership development. |
| 18 | The agency is responsible for enforcing regulations concerning consumer protection. |
| 19 | The council has passed a resolution concerning affordable housing. |
| 20 | The tribunal will hear arguments concerning the dispute over intellectual property. |
| 21 | The research analyzes data concerning the impact of technology on education. |
| 22 | The report details the findings concerning the effectiveness of the intervention program. |
| 23 | The study explores the factors concerning the adoption of renewable energy. |
| 24 | The investigation is focused on allegations concerning misconduct. |
| 25 | The committee is responsible for overseeing matters concerning compliance. |
Informal Contexts (Less Common)
While less frequent, “concerning” can appear in informal contexts, often to add a touch of humor or emphasis. This table shows the usage of “concerning” in different informal scenarios.
| # | Sentence |
|---|---|
| 1 | He was being rather mysterious concerning his weekend plans. |
| 2 | She seemed a bit cagey concerning her new boyfriend. |
| 3 | They were all hush-hush concerning the surprise party. |
| 4 | I’m a little worried concerning his recent behavior. |
| 5 | She was being quite dramatic concerning the broken vase. |
| 6 | He acted very strangely concerning the missing cookies. |
| 7 | They were gossiping concerning the neighbor’s new car. |
| 8 | I have some doubts concerning his cooking skills. |
| 9 | She seemed overly anxious concerning the upcoming game night. |
| 10 | He was being evasive concerning where he’d been all night. |
| 11 | They were all excited concerning the possibility of a vacation. |
| 12 | I’m curious concerning what she’s been up to lately. |
| 13 | He was very secretive concerning his new project. |
| 14 | She seemed skeptical concerning his explanation. |
| 15 | They were all whispering concerning the office romance. |
| 16 | I’m a bit apprehensive concerning the roller coaster ride. |
| 17 | He was being overly cautious concerning the weather forecast. |
| 18 | She seemed amused concerning his clumsy attempt at dancing. |
| 19 | They were all giggling concerning the funny meme. |
| 20 | I’m a little hesitant concerning trying the new restaurant. |
In Questions
“Concerning” can be used in questions, particularly in formal inquiries. This table shows the usage of “concerning” in different question scenarios.
| # | Sentence |
|---|---|
| 1 | Do you have any questions concerning the training program? |
| 2 | What are your concerns concerning the proposed changes? |
| 3 | Could you provide more details concerning the incident? |
| 4 | Are there any specific areas you’d like to discuss concerning the project? |
| 5 | What information do you require concerning the applicant’s qualifications? |
| 6 | Could you elaborate on the issues concerning the budget deficit? |
| 7 | What steps have been taken concerning the safety violations? |
| 8 | Are there any legal implications concerning the contract termination? |
| 9 | What are your recommendations concerning the improvement of customer service? |
| 10 | Could you clarify the procedures concerning data collection? |
| 11 | What are the potential risks concerning the investment strategy? |
| 12 | Are there any ethical considerations concerning the research methodology? |
| 13 | What are the environmental impacts concerning the construction project? |
| 14 | Could you provide more insight concerning the market trends? |
| 15 | What are the social implications concerning the policy change? |
| 16 | Are there any cultural factors concerning the communication barriers? |
| 17 | What are the economic consequences concerning the trade agreement? |
| 18 | Could you explain the rationale concerning the decision-making process? |
| 19 | What are the long-term effects concerning the technological advancements? |
| 20 | Are there any political ramifications concerning the international relations? |
In Legal Contexts
The preposition “concerning” frequently appears in legal documents, contracts, and court proceedings, adding a level of precision and formality that is essential in legal discourse. The examples provided here are designed to illustrate the specific ways in which “concerning” is used to denote the subject matter in various legal contexts.
| # | Sentence |
|---|---|
| 1 | The court will hear evidence concerning the defendant’s actions on the night of the crime. |
| 2 | The contract outlines the obligations concerning the use of the company’s intellectual property. |
| 3 | The legal team is preparing documents concerning the breach of contract claim. |
| 4 | The judge issued a ruling concerning the admissibility of the evidence. |
| 5 | The lawsuit alleges negligence concerning the handling of hazardous materials. |
| 6 | The statute addresses the regulations concerning the sale of firearms. |
| 7 | The agreement specifies the terms concerning the transfer of assets. |
| 8 | The affidavit provides testimony concerning the events leading up to the accident. |
| 9 | The memorandum details the legal arguments concerning the intellectual property dispute. |
| 10 | The subpoena requires the witness to provide information concerning the financial transactions. |
| 11 | The settlement agreement resolves all claims concerning the environmental damage. |
| 12 | The legislation governs the procedures concerning the application for permits. |
| 13 | The appellate court will review the decision concerning the interpretation of the law. |
| 14 | The prosecution presented evidence concerning the defendant’s motive for the crime. |
| 15 | The defense argued that there was insufficient evidence concerning the defendant’s involvement. |
| 16 | The court order mandates compliance concerning the environmental regulations. |
| 17 | The legal brief outlines the arguments concerning the constitutionality of the statute. |
| 18 | The deposition provides a record of the witness’s testimony concerning the events in question. |
| 19 | The judge instructed the jury concerning the elements of the crime. |
| 20 | The legal precedent sets the standard concerning the interpretation of the contract clause. |
| 21 | The claim addresses the issues concerning the violation of privacy rights. |
| 22 | The amendment clarifies the provisions concerning the taxation of foreign income. |
| 23 | The legal notice informs the public concerning the proposed changes to the zoning laws. |
| 24 | The court record documents the proceedings concerning the bankruptcy case. |
| 25 | The regulatory agency enforces the rules concerning the safety of consumer products. |
Common Mistakes
Even with a solid understanding of the rules, it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common errors to watch out for:
- Using “concerning about”: This is redundant. “Concerning” already means “about.” Incorrect: I am concerned about the issue concerning about the budget. Correct: I am concerned about the issue concerning the budget.
- Incorrect preposition after “concerning”: “Concerning” is a preposition itself; don’t add another one unnecessarily. Incorrect: The report concerning on the environment is informative. Correct: The report concerning the environment is informative.
- Using “concerning” in informal contexts when “about” is more appropriate: While not strictly incorrect, it can sound overly formal. Less Ideal: What did you say concerning the movie? Better: What did you say about the movie?
- Misplacing “concerning” in the sentence: Ensure it connects the main clause to the subject matter logically. Awkward: The concerning issue, we need to address it. Correct: We need to address the issue concerning [topic].
Here’s a table summarizing common mistakes and corrections:
| Mistake | Incorrect Example | Correct Example |
|---|---|---|
| Redundancy | The email was concerning about the meeting. | The email was concerning the meeting. |
| Extra Preposition | The discussion concerning on the project was lengthy. | The discussion concerning the project was lengthy. |
| Informal Context | He was vague concerning his whereabouts last night. | He was vague about his whereabouts last night. |
| Misplacement | Concerning the weather, we should postpone the event. | We should postpone the event concerning the weather. (less common, but grammatically correct) OR Concerning the weather, we should postpone the event. (Correct, but very formal). |
Practice Exercises
Test your understanding of “concerning” with these exercises.
Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks
Fill in the blanks with “concerning” to complete the sentences.
- I have some questions __________ the new marketing strategy.
- The report provides details __________ the project’s progress.
- We need to discuss the issues __________ the budget.
- She expressed her worries __________ the safety regulations.
- The email contained information __________ the upcoming event.
- There are several points I’d like to clarify __________ your proposal.
- The committee will review all documents __________ the application.
- He asked a question __________ the research methodology.
- The lawyer gave advice __________ the legal implications.
- The article explores various aspects __________ climate change.
Answer Key:
- concerning
- concerning
- concerning
- concerning
- concerning
- concerning
- concerning
- concerning
- concerning
- concerning
Exercise 2: Correct the Mistakes
Identify and correct the mistakes in the following sentences.
- The letter was concerning about the incident.
- The debate concerning on the economy was intense.
- What did she say concerning my presentation? (Consider formality)
- Concerning the deadline, we should work harder.
- He has some doubts concerning of the plan.
- The book is concerning with the history.
- She is worried concerning for the results.
- They are anxious concerning of their future.
- I am curious concerning to know more.
- He is secretive concerning with his work.
Answer Key:
- The letter was concerning the incident.
- The debate concerning the economy was intense.
- What did she say about my presentation? (More natural)
- We should work harder concerning the deadline. OR Concerning the deadline, we should work harder. (More formal, less common).
- He has some doubts concerning the plan.
- The book is concerning the history.
- She is worried concerning the results.
- They are anxious concerning their future.
- I am curious concerning to know more. (Awkward. Better: I am curious to know more about it.)
- He is secretive concerning his work.
Exercise 3: Sentence Completion
Complete the following sentences using “concerning” and an appropriate noun phrase.
- I need more information __________ .
- The company is conducting an investigation __________ .
- The regulations are very strict __________ .
- The presentation will focus __________ .
- We received several complaints __________ .
- The committee is responsible __________ .
- The details are not clear __________ .
- The study examines the correlation __________ .
- The workshop covers topics __________ .
- The organization advocates for policies __________ .
Possible Answer Key:
- I need more information concerning the project timeline.
- The company is conducting an investigation concerning the data breach.
- The regulations are very strict concerning environmental protection.
- The presentation will focus concerning the new product launch.
- We received several complaints concerning the service quality.
- The committee is responsible concerning budget allocations.
- The details are not clear concerning the payment terms.
- The study examines the correlation concerning diet and exercise.
- The workshop covers topics concerning effective communication strategies.
- The organization advocates for policies concerning affordable housing.
Advanced Topics
For advanced learners, consider these more nuanced aspects of using “concerning”:
- “As Concerning”: While rare, “as concerning” can be used to introduce a clause that explains the reason for a feeling or action. Example: “He was worried, as concerning reports had surfaced about the company’s financial instability.”
- Distinguishing from “Regarding” and “About”: While similar, “concerning” often implies a more formal or serious tone than “about.” “Regarding” is often interchangeable with “concerning” but can sometimes sound slightly more detached.
- Use in Headlines and Titles: “Concerning” can be effective in headlines and titles to clearly indicate the subject matter of the article or document. Example: “New Regulations Concerning Data Privacy Announced.”
Deeper exploration into the etymology of “concerning” reveals its roots in the verb “concern,” highlighting the active engagement or relevance of the subject matter being discussed. This understanding can further refine your usage of the preposition, ensuring it is used when the topic at hand genuinely holds significance or relevance.
FAQ
- Is “concerning” formal?
Yes, “concerning” is generally considered more formal than “about” or “regarding.” It is best suited for professional or academic writing and speech.
- Can I use “concerning” at the beginning of a sentence?
Yes, you can, but it is less common and can sound very formal. It’s often better to rephrase the sentence for clarity and flow. For example, instead of “Concerning the meeting, it has been postponed,” consider “The meeting has been postponed.”
- What’s the difference between “concerning” and “regarding”?
“Concerning” and “regarding” are very similar and often interchangeable. However, “concerning” can sometimes imply a greater sense of importance or urgency compared to “regarding,” which might sound slightly more neutral or detached. The choice often depends on the specific context and desired tone.
- Can I use “concerning” in informal conversation?
While grammatically correct, using “concerning” in informal conversation might sound stilted or overly formal. In most casual settings, “about” is a more natural and appropriate choice.
- What should I do if I’m unsure whether to use “concerning”?
When in doubt, consider the context and your audience. If you’re aiming for formality and precision, “concerning” is a good choice. If you’re in a casual setting or want to avoid sounding overly formal, “about” is usually a safer bet.
- What part of speech follows “concerning”?
A noun or noun phrase follows “concerning.” The noun or noun phrase acts as the object of the preposition, indicating the subject matter being discussed or considered.
- Is it ever incorrect to use “concerning”?
Yes, it’s incorrect to use “concerning” with redundant prepositions (e.g., “concerning about”) or in contexts where it sounds unnatural and overly formal when a simpler alternative like “about” would suffice.
- How can I improve my use of “concerning” in writing?
Practice using “concerning” in different contexts, paying attention to the tone and formality of your writing. Review examples of its usage in professional and academic texts to get a better sense of its appropriate application. Also, be mindful of avoiding common mistakes like redundancy and unnatural phrasing.
Conclusion
“Concerning” is a valuable preposition that adds precision and formality to your language. By understanding its definition, structural patterns, and appropriate usage, you can enhance the clarity and professionalism of your communication.
Remember to use it in formal contexts, avoid common mistakes, and practice incorporating it into your writing and speech.
Continue to explore and experiment with “concerning” in various contexts to solidify your understanding. Pay attention to how native speakers and professional writers use it.
With consistent practice, you’ll master the art of using “concerning” effectively and confidently.