concern - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
concern Word Meanings
- to worry someone
- to be about something
- a matter of interest or importance
concern Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
concern Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/kənˈsɜːn/
US
/kənˈsɜrn/
concern Word Etymology
con- = together + cernere = to sift/decide. Originated from Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a farmer sifting through grains to find the ones that concern him the most.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
First I notice a ripple in my routine, I shift the chair, lean in, and pull together my notes. As I shift the focus, I notice a knot of worry inching forward; I push it back, I adjust my posture, I keep my attention on what matters. The room tilts a little, and the sense of care turns into action, a small push toward making things right. In that moment of keeping watch, the word concern slides from a feeling into a state I hold and act on.
Real Context
concern has three core ideas in everyday English: (1) as a verb meaning to worry someone (to cause worry or interest), (2) in phrases like be concerned about or concern with, meaning to be related to or to relate to a topic, and (3) as a noun meaning a matter of interest or importance that deserves attention. It covers personal worry as in I am concerned for your safety, or a policy that concerns the public, and formal discussions about a topic that concerns many people. Learners often confuse senses, translate all forms as worry, or fail to distinguish be concerned about from the passive form concerned by someone.
Usage Reminders
- Be clear on which sense you need: worry someone, be concerned about something, or a matter of concern. Use be concerned about for personal worries, and concern for when expressing care about others. Remember that concern ≠ care in all contexts, and that concerning is a preposition-like form meaning 'about'.
Common Misconceptions
- Always translates to 'worry' in every context.
- Concerning is a synonym of 'about' in all sentences.
- To concern someone must always be negative or alarming.
- Be concerned about can’t be used with abstract topics.
- Confuse concern with care; they are never closer than similar but not identical.
Thinking Differences
English tends to mark 'concern' as either a personal emotion (worry) or an external topic (relevance). Learners often equate all uses with worry or misread 'concern' as a synonym of 'care', especially with nouns like 'a matter of concern'. The pn-up nuance of 'be concerned about' vs 'concerned by' can be tricky in passive constructions.
Learning Tips
- memorize three core senses, with examples: worry (concern someone), relate (concern about/about), and matter of concern (topic).
- Practice collocations: be concerned about, concern for, a matter of concern, concerns me/you/us.
- Differentiate be concerned about from worried about; note passive/active usage.
- Learn polite/formal uses like a matter of concern in reports.
- When you use concerned as adjective, remember it describes feelings about something or someone.
- Read/listen to contexts where 'concern' maps to 'relevance' rather than emotion.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'concern' mean?
A.Boredom
B.Sadness
C.Excitement
D.Interest
Step 2: Usage
How is the word 'concern' used in a sentence?
A.He showed concern for his friend's well-being.
B.She ignored her concerns about the project.
C.I am concerned about going to the party.
D.The teacher was concerned with the student's progress.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is similar to 'concern'?
A.Satisfaction
B.Worry
C.Indifference
D.Happiness
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is an opposite of 'concern'?
A.Carefree
B.Inquisitive
C.Attentive
D.Responsible
Step 5: Mastery
Can you provide a real-life context for the word 'concern'?
A.A parent's concern for their child's safety
B.A student's concern for their grades
C.An employee's concern for a promotion
D.A chef's concern for a delicious meal
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App