The word "concerning" can be used as a preposition meaning "about" or "regarding," and as an adjective meaning "causing worry or anxiety." Here's an analysis of its synonyms for both uses:
As a Preposition (about, regarding)
- Regarding
- Meaning: In respect of; with reference to; about.
- Analysis: "Regarding" is a very close synonym to "concerning." For example, "I have a question concerning/regarding the new policy." They are often interchangeable, but "regarding" might sound a bit more formal. It's a useful term when you want to introduce a specific topic or aspect that you're going to discuss. For instance, in a business meeting, you might say, "Regarding the sales figures, we need to analyze the trends."
- About
- Meaning: On the subject of; with reference to.
- Analysis: "About" is a more common and less formal synonym for "concerning." For example, "He told me a story about/concerning his travels." The main difference is that "about" is used more frequently in everyday language and has a wider range of applications. It can be used in casual conversations as well as in writing. For example, "We talked about many things," while "concerning" might be used more when you want to focus on a particular matter that requires attention or consideration.
- In relation to
- Meaning: With respect to; in connection with.
- Analysis: This phrase is similar to "concerning" but emphasizes the connection between different things. For example, "In relation to the project deadline, we need to speed up our work." It's often used to show how one thing is related to another and is a bit more formal than "about." It's useful when you're trying to clarify the context or the connection between different elements, such as in a research paper or a legal document.
As an Adjective (causing worry or anxiety)
- Worrying
- Meaning: Causing anxiety or concern.
- Analysis: "Worrying" is a synonym for "concerning" when it's used to describe something that makes you feel uneasy. For example, "The concerning/worrying news about the economy made people nervous." "Worrying" is a more straightforward way of expressing the idea that something is a cause for concern. It's a commonly used adjective in everyday language to describe situations, events, or information that trigger a sense of anxiety.
- Troubling
- Meaning: Causing distress or anxiety; disturbing.
- Analysis: Similar to "worrying," "troubling" emphasizes the distressing nature of something. For example, "The concerning/troubling behavior of the students was a matter of great concern for the teachers." "Troubling" often implies that there's something morally or emotionally disturbing about the situation. It can be used to describe actions, attitudes, or circumstances that make you feel uncomfortable or concerned.
- Disturbing
- Meaning: Causing emotional distress or worry; unsettling.
- Analysis: "Disturbing" is a stronger synonym for "concerning" in the sense of causing anxiety. For example, "The concerning/disturbing images from the war zone had a profound impact on the viewers." It implies a more significant impact on a person's emotions and can be used to describe things that are deeply unsettling or shockingly concerning.