Concern: meaning, definitions and examples

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concern

[kənˈsərn ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

anxiety

Concern is a feeling of worry or anxiety about something. It is a state of being interested in or caring about something. Concern can also refer to an issue or matter that is important or meaningful.

Synonyms

anxiety, care, interest, issue, worry.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
concern	Used when expressing worry about a particular matter or situation. She expressed concern about the environmental impact of the project His main concern was whether the budget would be approved
worry	Used when talking about the feeling of being unhappy or anxious about something that might happen. Parents often worry about their children's future There's no need to worry; everything will be fine
anxiety	Used when describing a feeling of nervousness, worry, or unease about something with an uncertain outcome. Before the exam, she felt a lot of anxiety His anxiety levels were high before the big presentation
interest	Used when referring to curiosity or attention towards a certain topic or activity. He has a strong interest in history The new policy has generated a lot of interest among the employees
care	Used when talking about giving attention and consideration to something or someone. She takes great care of her garden Please handle this with care
issue	Used when discussing a problem or topic that requires attention or debate. The company is facing several major issues Homelessness is a significant issue in many cities

Examples of usage

I have a concern about the safety of our children.
She expressed her concern about the environment.
The government should address the public's concerns.
His main concern is the well-being of his family.
Global warming is a major concern for scientists.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

worry

To concern is to cause someone to feel worried or anxious. It can also mean to be relevant or important to someone. Concern can also refer to showing interest or care for someone or something.

Synonyms

affect, interest, involve, trouble, worry.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
concern	This word is typically used to express worry or care about a matter or situation. It can be used both in personal and formal contexts. Her health is a major concern for the doctors. Environmental issues are a growing concern globally.
worry	This word is used to describe the state of being anxious or concerned about current or potential problems. It is commonly used in personal contexts with a negative connotation. His constant worry about the future is affecting his health. Don't worry, everything will be alright.
trouble	This word conveys a sense of difficulty, problems, or distress. It often has a negative connotation and is used in both personal and formal contexts. She's going through a lot of trouble at work. The car trouble delayed their trip.
affect	This word is used to describe the impact or influence something has on someone or something. It is commonly used in scientific, academic, and formal contexts. The new policy will affect the entire community. The weather significantly affects my mood.
involve	This word describes participation or inclusion of someone or something in an activity or situation. It's often used in formal and informal settings. The project will involve multiple departments. Parenting involves a lot of patience.
interest	This word is often used when talking about curiosity, attention, or investment in a particular subject or activity. It can be used both informally and formally. He has a deep interest in ancient history. I have no interest in watching that movie.

Examples of usage

The recent news concerns me.
It concerns me that you haven't arrived yet.
This issue concerns all of us.
She concerns herself with the well-being of others.
The safety of the passengers concerns the pilot.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term 'concern' comes from the Latin word 'concernere', which means 'to sift together' or 'to mix up', suggesting a blending of feelings.
The word has been in use since the 14th century, originally defined as 'to relate or affect' something, showing how impact is central to the meaning.
In Old French, the word 'concerner' emphasized the importance of involvement in something, reflecting relationships and emotional connections.

Psychology

Psychologists often discuss concern as a natural emotional response to stressors, playing a role in decision-making and problem-solving.
Excessive concern can lead to anxiety, showing the fine line between healthy worry and overwhelming fear.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) suggests managing concerns by challenging negative thoughts, helping individuals cope better with worries.

Pop Culture

In various films and literature, characters often express concern as a driving force for their actions, revealing the importance of care in human relationships.
Songs frequently explore themes of concern, depicting the emotional struggles that arise when loved ones are in danger.
In many superhero narratives, the central hero's power often includes a deep concern for humanity, driving their quest for justice.

Literature

Diverse literary works often explore the theme of concern, showcasing characters whose lives are impacted by their worries for others.
Concerns can drive plots in classic novels, where protagonists often face dilemmas that relate to their own or others' welfare.
In poetry, the feeling of concern is frequently expressed through imagery, illustrating the emotional weight of worries and cares.

Everyday Life

In everyday interactions, expressing concern can strengthen relationships, showing care and compassion.
Workplaces often encourage open discussions about concerns to foster support and collaboration among colleagues.
Community engagement is often driven by concern for shared environments, prompting actions to improve local conditions.

Translations

Translations of the word "concern" in other languages:

🇵🇹 preocupação

🇮🇳 चिंता

चिंता
रुचि

🇩🇪 Besorgnis

🇮🇩 keprihatinan

🇺🇦 занепокоєння

🇵🇱 zaniepokojenie

🇯🇵 心配

🇫🇷 préoccupation

🇪🇸 preocupación

🇹🇷 endişe

🇰🇷 걱정

🇸🇦 قلق

🇨🇿 obava

🇸🇰 obava

🇨🇳 担忧

🇸🇮 skrb

🇮🇸 áhyggja

🇰🇿 алаңдау

🇬🇪 შეშფოთება

🇦🇿 narahatlıq

🇲🇽 preocupación

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #1,276, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.

...
1273 opening
1274 attack
1275 amendment
1276 concern
1277 courts
1278 believed
1279 speech
...