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 and effective communication. This article provides a comprehensive guide to using “concerning,” exploring its definition, structural roles, various applications, and common pitfalls. Whether you’re an English language learner or a seasoned writer, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and practice to confidently incorporate “concerning” into your vocabulary.
This article is designed for English language learners, students, writers, and anyone who wants to improve their understanding and use of the preposition “concerning.” By the end of this guide, you’ll be able to recognize, understand, and use “concerning” accurately in a variety of contexts.
Table of Contents
- Definition of “Concerning”
- Structural Breakdown
- Usage Rules
- Examples of “Concerning” in Sentences
- Common Mistakes
- Practice Exercises
- Advanced Topics
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Conclusion
Definition of “Concerning”
“Concerning” is a preposition that means about, regarding, or relating to. It indicates the topic or subject matter being discussed or considered. It’s often used in formal writing and speech to introduce a specific issue or point of interest.
As a preposition, “concerning” connects a noun or pronoun (its object) to another word in the sentence, showing the relationship between them. It helps to specify what the rest of the sentence is about.
The function of “concerning” is to narrow the focus of a statement or question. It directs the listener or reader to the particular subject that is being addressed. This allows for clarity and precision, especially in situations where multiple topics might be relevant.
The word “concerning” can be used in various contexts, including:
- Formal letters and emails: To introduce the subject of the communication.
- Legal documents: To specify the matter being addressed in the document.
- Academic writing: To indicate the scope of a study or research.
- General conversation: Although less common in informal speech, it can be used to add a touch of formality.
Structural Breakdown
The basic structure of a sentence using “concerning” is:
[Main Clause] + concerning + [Noun/Noun Phrase]
Here’s a breakdown:
- Main Clause: This is the independent part of the sentence that can stand alone. It contains a subject and a verb.
- concerning: The preposition itself, linking the main clause to the topic.
- Noun/Noun Phrase: This is the object of the preposition “concerning.” It specifies the topic or subject that the main clause is related to.
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 acting as the object of the preposition.
The prepositional phrase (“concerning the new policy”) acts as an adverbial modifier, providing more information about the questions. It tells us what the questions are about.
The position of the “concerning” phrase can sometimes be varied for emphasis, though it’s most commonly placed after the main clause. For instance:
Concerning the budget cuts, we need to have a meeting. (Less common, but grammatically correct)
In this case, the “concerning” phrase is placed at the beginning of the sentence, drawing attention to the topic before introducing the main clause.
Usage Rules
Using “concerning” correctly involves understanding a few key rules:
- Followed by a Noun or Noun Phrase: “Concerning” must always be followed by a noun or noun phrase. It cannot be followed directly by a verb.
- Formal Tone: “Concerning” is generally more formal than “about.” Use it in situations where a formal tone is appropriate.
- Clarity: Ensure that the noun or noun phrase following “concerning” is clear and specific. Avoid vague or ambiguous references.
- Context: Consider the context of your writing or speech. “Concerning” is most effective when introducing a specific topic or issue.
- Avoid Overuse: While “concerning” is useful, overuse can make your writing sound stilted. Vary your vocabulary by using synonyms like “regarding,” “about,” or “pertaining to.”
Here’s a table summarizing these rules:
| Rule | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Followed by Noun/Phrase | Must be followed by a noun or noun phrase, not a verb. | Correct: “I have concerns concerning the project’s timeline.” Incorrect: “I have concerns concerning delaying.” |
| Formal Tone | Best used in formal contexts like letters, reports, and legal documents. | Appropriate: “The report concerning environmental impact is now available.” Less Appropriate: “I was talking concerning the weather.” (Use “about” instead) |
| Clarity | The noun/phrase should be clear and specific. | Clear: “The email concerning the upcoming conference provides all the details.” Unclear: “The email concerning things provides all the details.” |
| Context | Use when introducing a specific topic or issue. | Effective: “The meeting concerning budget allocations will be held next week.” Less Effective: “He spoke concerning many topics.” (Use “about” instead) |
| Avoid Overuse | Vary your vocabulary to avoid sounding repetitive. | Better: “The letter regarding your application…” (instead of “The letter concerning your application…”) |
Examples of “Concerning” in Sentences
Here are several examples of “concerning” used in different contexts, categorized for clarity.
General Statements
In general statements, “concerning” introduces the topic of discussion or information.
| Example Sentence | Explanation |
|---|---|
| I have some questions concerning the project’s deadline. | The sentence indicates that the questions are related to the deadline of the project. |
| She expressed her worries concerning the company’s future. | This shows that her worries are about the company’s future prospects. |
| There are several issues concerning the new regulations. | This indicates that the issues are related to the new regulations. |
| The report contains information concerning the environmental impact. | The report’s content is about the environmental impact. |
| We need to discuss matters concerning the budget. | The discussion will focus on the budget. |
| They are conducting research concerning the effects of climate change. | The research focuses on the impacts of climate change. |
| He made a statement concerning the allegations. | The statement is about the allegations. |
| The manager sent an email concerning the upcoming meeting. | The email’s subject is the upcoming meeting. |
| I am writing to you concerning your recent application. | The letter pertains to the recipient’s application. |
| The book contains a chapter concerning the history of art. | One chapter is about the history of art. |
| The article is concerning the benefits of exercise. | The article’s topic is the advantages of physical activity. |
| The debate was concerning the new economic policies. | The debate centered around the new economic policies. |
| The presentation will be concerning the marketing strategy. | The presentation will cover the marketing strategy. |
| The investigation is concerning the fraud allegations. | The investigation is focused on the fraud allegations. |
| The discussion is concerning the future of the company. | The conversation revolves around the company’s future. |
| The documentary is concerning the lives of refugees. | The documentary tells the stories of refugees. |
| The seminar is concerning the latest advancements in technology. | The seminar covers the latest technological advancements. |
| The workshop is concerning the improvement of writing skills. | The workshop aims to enhance writing abilities. |
| The lecture is concerning the principles of physics. | The lecture explains the fundamental concepts of physics. |
| The tutorial is concerning the use of the software. | The tutorial teaches how to use the software. |
| The guide is concerning the best practices for project management. | The guide outlines effective project management techniques. |
| The manual is concerning the operation of the machinery. | The manual provides instructions for operating the machinery. |
| The instructions are concerning the assembly of the furniture. | The instructions detail how to assemble the furniture. |
| The rules are concerning the use of the equipment. | The rules govern the use of the equipment. |
| The regulations are concerning the safety standards. | The regulations define the safety standards. |
Formal Contexts
In formal contexts, “concerning” adds a professional and precise tone to the communication.
| Example Sentence | Explanation |
|---|---|
| We are writing to you concerning your application for the position. | This is a formal way to begin a letter about a job application. |
| The board has issued a statement concerning the recent events. | This conveys a formal announcement from the board. |
| The committee will hold a meeting concerning the proposed changes. | This indicates a formal meeting to discuss changes. |
| The legal team is preparing a document concerning the contract dispute. | This shows the formal preparation of a legal document. |
| The authorities have launched an investigation concerning the allegations of corruption. | This indicates a formal investigation by authorities. |
| The government has released a policy concerning environmental conservation. | This announces a formal government policy on environmental issues. |
| The university has established a committee concerning academic integrity. | This indicates the formal establishment of a university committee. |
| The organization has published a report concerning human rights violations. | This announces a formal report on human rights issues. |
| The foundation has announced a grant concerning scientific research. | This indicates a formal grant announcement for research. |
| The institution has issued a statement concerning the new regulations. | This conveys a formal announcement on new regulations. |
| The company has released a press release concerning its financial performance. | This announces a formal statement on the company’s finances. |
| The hospital has published guidelines concerning patient care. | This indicates formal guidelines for patient management. |
| The school has implemented a policy concerning student conduct. | This announces a formal policy on student behavior. |
| The department has announced a program concerning community development. | This indicates a formal program for community improvement. |
| The agency has launched an initiative concerning public health. | This announces a formal initiative for public health. |
| The council has approved a budget concerning infrastructure improvements. | This indicates a formal budget for infrastructure. |
| The commission has released a report concerning economic development. | This announces a formal report on economic issues. |
| The association has established a standard concerning professional conduct. | This indicates a formal standard for professionals. |
| The institute has announced a fellowship concerning advanced studies. | This announces a formal fellowship for academic pursuits. |
| The society has published a journal concerning scientific research. | This indicates a formal publication for research. |
| The alliance has issued a declaration concerning peace negotiations. | This announces a formal declaration for peace talks. |
| The partnership has launched a project concerning sustainable development. | This indicates a formal project for sustainability. |
| The coalition has released a statement concerning political reforms. | This announces a formal statement on political changes. |
| The federation has announced a competition concerning athletic achievement. | This indicates a formal competition for athletes. |
| The consortium has published a study concerning market trends. | This announces a formal study on market analysis. |
Inquiries and Requests
“Concerning” can be used to frame inquiries or requests, making them specific and focused.
| Example Sentence | Explanation |
|---|---|
| I have an inquiry concerning the availability of the product. | This is a formal way to ask about the product’s availability. |
| Could you provide information concerning the application process? | This is a polite request for information about the application. |
| We would like to request details concerning the event’s schedule. | This is a formal request for the event schedule. |
| I am writing to inquire concerning the status of my order. | This is a formal way to ask about the order status. |
| Please provide clarification concerning the terms and conditions. | This is a formal request for clarity on the terms. |
| I have a question concerning the refund policy. | This is a formal way to ask about the refund policy. |
| Could you send me information concerning the course requirements? | This is a polite request for course details. |
| We would like to request details concerning the conference agenda. | This is a formal request for the conference schedule. |
| I am writing to inquire concerning the eligibility criteria. | This is a formal way to ask about the criteria. |
| Please provide clarification concerning the payment methods. | This is a formal request for clarity on payment options. |
| I have an inquiry concerning the warranty period. | This is a formal way to ask about the warranty. |
| Could you send me information concerning the registration process? | This is a polite request for registration details. |
| We would like to request details concerning the accommodation options. | This is a formal request for accommodation information. |
| I am writing to inquire concerning the submission guidelines. | This is a formal way to ask about guidelines. |
| Please provide clarification concerning the data protection policies. | This is a formal request for clarity on data policies. |
| I have a question concerning the access rights. | This is a formal way to ask about access permissions. |
| Could you send me information concerning the upgrade options? | This is a polite request for upgrade details. |
| We would like to request details concerning the maintenance schedule. | This is a formal request for maintenance information. |
| I am writing to inquire concerning the cancellation policy. | This is a formal way to ask about the policy. |
| Please provide clarification concerning the usage restrictions. | This is a formal request for clarity on usage rules. |
| I have an inquiry concerning the security measures. | This is a formal way to ask about security. |
| Could you send me information concerning the shipping costs? | This is a polite request for shipping details. |
| We would like to request details concerning the delivery times. | This is a formal request for delivery information. |
| I am writing to inquire concerning the product specifications. | This is a formal way to ask about the specifications. |
| Please provide clarification concerning the system requirements. | This is a formal request for clarity on system needs. |
Legal Documents
In legal documents, “concerning” is used to precisely define the subject matter of a clause or section.
| Example Sentence | Explanation |
|---|---|
| This section outlines the provisions concerning intellectual property. | This clearly states that the section deals with intellectual property. |
| The clause details the regulations concerning data protection. | This specifies that the clause is about data protection regulations. |
| The agreement includes stipulations concerning liability in case of damages. | This indicates that the agreement covers liability for damages. |
| The law addresses issues concerning environmental pollution. | This clarifies that the law is about environmental pollution. |
| The contract contains provisions concerning dispute resolution. | This specifies that the contract includes how disputes will be resolved.. |
| The statute outlines the rules concerning property rights. | This clearly states that the statute deals with property rights. |
| The amendment details the changes concerning tax laws. | This specifies that the amendment is about tax law changes. |
| The treaty includes stipulations concerning international trade. | This indicates that the treaty covers international commerce. |
| The ordinance addresses issues concerning public safety. | This clarifies that the ordinance is about public safety. |
| The document contains provisions concerning contract termination. | This specifies that the document includes how contracts end. |
| The regulation outlines the rules concerning consumer protection. | This clearly states that the regulation deals with consumer rights. |
| The code details the guidelines concerning professional ethics. | This specifies that the code is about ethical standards. |
| The protocol includes stipulations concerning data security. | This indicates that the protocol covers data protection. |
| The decree addresses issues concerning labor rights. | This clarifies that the decree is about employee rights. |
| The policy contains provisions concerning confidentiality. | This specifies that the policy includes privacy rules. |
| The act outlines the rules concerning immigration procedures. | This clearly states that the act deals with immigration laws. |
| The directive details the instructions concerning compliance requirements. | This specifies that the directive is about regulatory adherence. |
| The charter includes stipulations concerning governance structures. | This indicates that the charter covers organizational management. |
| The legislation addresses issues concerning healthcare access. | This clarifies that the legislation is about medical services. |
| The ruling contains provisions concerning judicial review. | This specifies that the ruling includes legal appeals. |
| The resolution outlines the measures concerning conflict resolution. | This clearly states that the resolution deals with dispute management. |
| The mandate details the responsibilities concerning regulatory oversight. | This specifies that the mandate is about supervisory duties. |
| The convention includes stipulations concerning human rights protection. | This indicates that the convention covers fundamental freedoms. |
| The statute addresses issues concerning environmental sustainability. | This clarifies that the statute is about ecological preservation. |
| The judgment contains provisions concerning legal remedies. | This specifies that the judgment includes legal recourse options. |
Academic Writing
In academic writing, “concerning” is used to define the scope or focus of research, studies, or analyses.
| Example Sentence | Explanation |
|---|---|
| This study examines the factors concerning student performance. | This indicates the study’s focus is on factors affecting student performance. |
| The research investigates the effects concerning social media on teenagers. | This clarifies that the research is about social media’s impact on teens. |
| The analysis explores the trends concerning economic growth in developing countries. | This specifies that the analysis is about economic growth trends. |
| The paper presents findings concerning the impact of climate change on agriculture. | This indicates that the paper’s findings relate to climate change and agriculture. |
| The thesis discusses the theories concerning cognitive development in children. | This clarifies that the thesis is about cognitive development theories. |
| This dissertation examines the methods concerning data analysis in healthcare. | This indicates the dissertation’s focus is on data analysis techniques. |
| The research investigates the relationships concerning leadership styles and team productivity. | This clarifies that the research is about how leadership impacts team output. |
| The analysis explores the challenges concerning urban planning in megacities. | This specifies that the analysis is about urban development issues. |
| The article presents evidence concerning the benefits of mindfulness meditation. | This indicates that the article’s evidence relates to meditation advantages. |
| The report discusses the policies concerning renewable energy adoption. | This clarifies that the report is about policies for green energy use. |
| This review examines the literature concerning artificial intelligence applications. | This indicates the review’s focus is on AI’s practical uses. |
| The study investigates the correlations concerning dietary habits and disease prevalence. | This clarifies that the study is about diet’s impact on health. |
| The analysis explores the patterns concerning consumer behavior in online shopping. | This specifies that the analysis is about online shopping habits. |
| The presentation presents data concerning the effects of air pollution on respiratory health. | This indicates that the presentation relates to pollution and lung health. |
| The module discusses the principles concerning project management methodologies. | This clarifies that the module is about project management techniques. |
| This investigation examines the factors concerning employee satisfaction in tech companies. | This indicates the investigation’s focus is on job happiness. |
| The research investigates the impacts concerning globalization on cultural identity. | This clarifies that the research is about global influences on culture. |
| The analysis explores the strategies concerning risk management in financial institutions. | This specifies that the analysis is about financial risk strategies. |
| The seminar presents findings concerning the effectiveness of online learning platforms. | This indicates that the seminar relates to online education effectiveness. |
| The course discusses the ethics concerning genetic engineering research. | This clarifies that the course is about moral issues in gene research. |
| This experiment examines the variables concerning plant growth under different conditions. | This indicates the experiment’s focus is on plant development factors. |
| The research investigates the processes concerning language acquisition in young children. | This clarifies that the research is about how kids learn to speak. |
| The analysis explores the dynamics concerning political polarization in modern democracies. | This specifies that the analysis is about political divisions. |
| The lecture presents theories concerning quantum physics principles. | This indicates that the lecture relates to quantum mechanics. |
| The textbook discusses the concepts concerning sustainable development practices. | This clarifies that the textbook is about environmental preservation. |
Common Mistakes
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when using “concerning”:
- Using “concerning” in informal contexts when “about” is more appropriate: “Concerning” is formal; “about” is often better in casual speech.
- Following “concerning” with a verb instead of a noun or noun phrase: “Concerning” is a preposition and requires a noun phrase object.
- Overusing “concerning,” making the writing sound stilted: Vary vocabulary with synonyms.
Here’s a table illustrating these mistakes with corrections:
| Incorrect | Correct | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| I was talking concerning the movie. | I was talking about the movie. | “About” is more appropriate in informal conversation. |
| The email concerning to update the software. | The email concerning the software update. | “Concerning” must be followed by a noun phrase. |
| Concerning the weather, concerning the traffic, concerning the news… | Regarding the weather, about the traffic, as for the news… | Overuse of “concerning” sounds repetitive and unnatural. |
Practice Exercises
Test your understanding with these practice exercises.
Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks
Fill in the blanks with “concerning” or “about,” choosing the most appropriate word.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. I have some questions _______ the new policy. | concerning |
| 2. She was telling me _______ her vacation. | about |
| 3. The letter is _______ your recent application. | concerning |
| 4. What did he say _______ the meeting? | about |
| 5. The report provides information _______ the project’s progress. | concerning |
| 6. They had a discussion _______ their future plans. | about |
| 7. The email was _______ the change in schedule. | concerning |
| 8. I’m worried _______ the test results. | about |
| 9. He asked me _______ my opinion. | about |
| 10. The authorities are investigating the matter _______ the incident. | concerning |
Exercise 2: Correct the Sentences
Correct the following sentences if they use “concerning” incorrectly.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. I am concerning about the weather. | I am concerned about the weather. |
| 2. The email concerning to update the software. | The email concerning the software update. |
| 3. He spoke concerning many things. | He spoke about many things. |
| 4. She has concerns concerning delay the project. | She has concerns concerning delaying the project / She has concerns about delaying the project. |
| 5. The law concerning to protect the environment. | The law concerning environmental protection. |
| 6. I heard concerning the accident. | I heard about the accident. |
| 7. The report is concerning to analyze the data. | The report is concerning the data analysis. |
| 8. He is worried concerning failing the exam. | He is worried about failing the exam. |
| 9. She asked concerning my health. | She asked about my health. |
| 10. The manual concerning to operate the machine. | The manual concerning the operation of the machine. |
Exercise 3: Sentence Construction
Construct sentences using “concerning” based on the following prompts.
| Prompt | Example Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. A letter about a job application | I am writing to you concerning your application for the marketing manager position. |
| 2. A report on environmental impact | The report contains information concerning the environmental impact of the new factory. |
| 3. Questions about the project deadline | I have several questions concerning the project’s deadline and milestones. |
| 4. Concerns about the company’s future | The employees expressed their worries concerning the company’s future prospects. |
| 5. An inquiry about product availability | I have an inquiry concerning the availability of the limited edition product. |
| 6. A discussion about budget allocations | The meeting will focus on matters concerning budget allocations and resource management. |
| 7. A statement on recent events | The university issued a statement concerning the recent events on campus. |
| 8. An investigation into allegations of fraud | The authorities launched an investigation concerning the allegations of fraud within the company. |
| 9. A policy on student conduct | The school implemented a strict policy concerning student conduct and disciplinary actions. |
| 10. Information about course requirements | Could you please provide information concerning the course requirements and prerequisites? |
Advanced Topics
For advanced learners, it’s helpful to understand the subtle differences between “concerning” and similar prepositions.
“Concerning” vs. “Regarding”
“Concerning” and “regarding” are often interchangeable, but “regarding” can sometimes imply a slightly broader scope. “Concerning” tends to focus more directly on a specific issue, while “regarding” can introduce a more general topic.
Example:
- “The email concerning the budget cuts outlined the specific areas affected.” (Specific focus)
- “The email regarding the company’s finances provided an overview of the overall situation.” (Broader scope)
“Concerning” vs. “About”
While both can mean “relating to,” “concerning” is more formal than “about.” Use “about” in informal contexts and “concerning” in formal or professional settings.
Example:
- “We talked about the party.” (Informal)
- “We discussed matters concerning the upcoming conference.” (Formal)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Is “concerning” always formal?
Yes, “concerning” generally carries a more formal tone than “about.” While it can be used in everyday conversation, it’s more commonly found in formal writing, legal documents, and professional communications. - Can I use “concerning” at the beginning of a sentence?
Yes, but use it sparingly. Starting a sentence with “concerning” can sometimes sound awkward. It’s often better to rephrase the sentence for clarity and flow. For example, instead of “Concerning the budget, we need to make some changes,” try “We need to make some changes concerning the budget.” - What are some synonyms for “concerning”?
Synonyms for “concerning” include: regarding, about, pertaining to, relating to, with respect to, in connection with, and in reference to. - Is it correct to say “I am concerning”?
No, “concerning” is a preposition and not an adjective in this context. The correct phrasing would be “I am concerned about…” or “It is concerning that…” - How do I avoid overusing “concerning” in my writing?
To avoid overuse, actively look for opportunities to use synonyms or rephrase your sentences. Varying your vocabulary will make your writing more engaging and less repetitive.
Conclusion
Mastering the use of “concerning” can significantly enhance the precision and formality of your communication. By understanding its definition, structural rules, and appropriate contexts, you can confidently incorporate it into your writing and speech. Remember to avoid common mistakes, practice regularly, and consider the subtle differences between “concerning” and its synonyms. With consistent effort, you’ll be well-equipped to use “concerning” effectively and elevate your language skills.
