The term “concerning” plays a pivotal role in both written and verbal communication, often used to indicate relation or pertinence to a specific topic or subject matter.
Historical Context
The term “concerning” dates back to Middle English, evolving from the Old French word “concerner,” and ultimately from the Latin word “concernere,” meaning to “sift together” or “mix.” Over time, its usage has broadened and shifted to primarily denote a relationship or relevancy to a subject.
Types and Categories
The word “concerning” is employed across various contexts:
- Academic Context: Used in scholarly works to denote relevance to a particular research topic.
- Legal Context: Common in legal documents and contracts to specify the matter at hand.
- Everyday Use: Utilized in daily conversations to refer to topics of interest or concern.
Key Events
While “concerning” itself is not associated with specific historical events, its usage reflects the evolution of the English language and its adaptation in different fields.
Detailed Explanations
“Concerning” serves as a preposition to connect subjects to their related topics. For example:
- “The study concerning climate change offers new insights into environmental impacts.”
- “There are new regulations concerning data privacy.”
Importance and Applicability
Understanding the usage of “concerning” is crucial for clear and effective communication. It ensures that the connection between subjects and their relevant topics is explicit and understood.
Examples
- Academic: “The paper concerning quantum physics has been peer-reviewed.”
- Legal: “The clause concerning tenant responsibilities is outlined in section 4.”
- Everyday Use: “I received an email concerning our meeting tomorrow.”
Related Terms with Definitions
- Pertaining to: Relating to or regarding.
- Regarding: Concerning; with respect to.
- With respect to: Concerning or in relation to.
Interesting Facts
- The use of “concerning” has been traced back to texts from the 14th century.
- It is a versatile term used widely in English-speaking countries around the world.
Famous Quotes
- “The only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it, move with it, and join the dance.” - Alan Watts (concerning adaptation to change)
Proverbs and Clichés
- “Concerning the matter at hand, it’s best to be well-informed.”
- “Regarding your query, here is the information you requested.”
Expressions
- “Concerning the issue you raised, we need further discussion.”
- “Concerning recent developments, we should adjust our strategy.”
Jargon and Slang
- In professional settings, “concerning” may be used in formal documents or discussions to convey relevancy to an issue or topic.
FAQs
Q1: Is “concerning” the same as “about”? A1: While similar, “concerning” is more formal than “about,” often used in academic, legal, or professional contexts.
Q2: Can “concerning” be used at the beginning of a sentence? A2: Yes, it is grammatically correct to begin a sentence with “concerning.” For example, “Concerning your request, further information is needed.”
References
- Merriam-Webster. “Concerning.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary.
- Oxford English Dictionary. “Concerning.” OED Online.
- Cambridge Dictionary. “Concerning.” Cambridge University Press.
Final Summary
The term “concerning” is an essential element of the English language, offering clarity and precision in linking subjects to their relevant topics. Its historical roots and evolving use demonstrate its enduring significance in communication across various contexts. Understanding how and when to use “concerning” can greatly enhance both written and verbal exchanges, ensuring that the intended message is conveyed accurately.
