Concern vs. Concerning

Attribute	Concern	Concerning
Definition	Something that causes worry or anxiety	Causing worry or anxiety
Part of Speech	Noun	Adjective
Usage	Expresses a feeling of worry or interest	Describes something that causes worry or interest
Emotional Response	Can evoke fear or unease	Can evoke fear or unease

Definition

Concern and concerning are two words that are often used interchangeably, but they actually have distinct meanings. Concern is a noun that refers to a feeling of worry or interest in something, while concerning is an adjective that describes something that causes concern or worry. In other words, concern is the feeling itself, while concerning is what triggers that feeling.

Usage

Concern is typically used to express worry or interest in a particular issue or situation. For example, "I have a concern about the safety of this building." On the other hand, concerning is used to describe something that is worrying or troubling. For example, "The concerning rise in crime rates is alarming." Both words convey a sense of unease, but concern is more focused on the feeling itself, while concerning is focused on what is causing that feeling.

Emotional Impact

When it comes to emotional impact, concern tends to be more personal and internal. It is a feeling that individuals experience when they are worried about something. Concern can range from mild unease to deep anxiety, depending on the situation. On the other hand, concerning is more external and objective. It describes something that is troubling or worrying, but it may not necessarily evoke the same emotional response in everyone who encounters it.

Subjectivity

Concern is subjective in nature, as it is based on an individual's personal feelings and experiences. What one person finds concerning may not be a concern for someone else. Concern is influenced by factors such as personal values, beliefs, and past experiences. Concerning, on the other hand, is more objective and factual. Something that is concerning is generally agreed upon as being worrisome or troubling by a larger group of people, regardless of individual differences.

Context

Concern can be used in a variety of contexts, from personal relationships to global issues. It is a versatile word that can convey a range of emotions and levels of worry. Concerning, on the other hand, is often used in more formal or serious contexts. It is commonly seen in news reports, academic papers, and official statements to highlight issues that are troubling or alarming. Concerning is often used to draw attention to potential problems or dangers that need to be addressed.

Impact

While concern can be a powerful motivator for individuals to take action or seek solutions to problems, concerning can have a broader impact on society as a whole. When something is deemed concerning, it can lead to policy changes, public awareness campaigns, and other collective efforts to address the issue. Concerning issues are often seen as urgent and in need of immediate attention, which can mobilize communities and governments to take action.

Conclusion

In conclusion, concern and concerning are two related but distinct words that convey different meanings and emotions. Concern is a personal feeling of worry or interest, while concerning describes something that is troubling or alarming. Both words play important roles in communication and can have significant impacts on individuals and society. Understanding the nuances of these words can help us better express our thoughts and feelings, as well as address important issues in our communities and the world at large.