Disconcerting vs Concerning: How Are These Words Connected?

Are you often confused whether to use the word disconcerting or concerning in your writing? These two words are often used interchangeably, but they actually have different meanings. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between disconcerting and concerning and when to use each of them.

Disconcerting and concerning are both adjectives used to describe something that causes worry or anxiety. However, disconcerting is used to describe something that is unsettling or disturbing, while concerning is used to describe something that is causing interest or attention because it is important or potentially dangerous.

For example, if you hear a strange noise in your house at night, it might be disconcerting because it makes you feel uneasy or anxious. On the other hand, if you read a news article about a new virus outbreak, it might be concerning because it is important and potentially dangerous.

It’s important to use the right word in the right context to avoid confusion or miscommunication. In the following sections, we’ll explore the differences between these two words in more detail and provide examples of how to use them correctly.

Define Disconcerting

Disconcerting can be defined as something that causes confusion or disturbance, making one feel uneasy or unsettled. It can also refer to something that disrupts one’s composure or confidence, causing a feeling of discomfort or awkwardness.

For example, a disconcerting noise in the middle of the night can leave one feeling scared and uneasy. Similarly, receiving a disconcerting diagnosis from a doctor can cause a great deal of anxiety and uncertainty.

Overall, disconcerting refers to something that throws one off balance or causes a disturbance in their emotional or mental state.

Define Concerning

Concerning, on the other hand, refers to something that is causing worry or anxiety. It can also be used to describe something that is important or significant enough to warrant attention or consideration.

For example, a concerning trend in a particular industry may indicate larger problems that need to be addressed. Similarly, a concerning symptom in a patient may require further investigation to determine the underlying cause.

Overall, concerning refers to something that is causing worry or that requires attention due to its significance or potential consequences.

How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence

Using the right words in a sentence can make all the difference in the meaning and impact of your message. In particular, the words “disconcerting” and “concerning” are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings that should be used appropriately. Here’s how to use these words correctly in a sentence.

How To Use “Disconcerting” In A Sentence

“Disconcerting” is an adjective that describes something that causes unease, confusion, or discomfort. It is often used to describe situations or events that are unexpected or surprising, and leave the person feeling unsettled. Here are some examples:

• The sudden change in plans was disconcerting to everyone.
• The eerie silence in the abandoned house was disconcerting.
• The politician’s lack of knowledge on the topic was disconcerting to the audience.

When using “disconcerting,” it’s important to remember that it should be used to describe something that causes a negative feeling or reaction. It should not be used to describe something that is simply surprising or unexpected.

How To Use “Concerning” In A Sentence

“Concerning” is an adjective that describes something that causes worry, anxiety, or apprehension. It is often used to describe situations or events that have the potential to be harmful or dangerous. Here are some examples:

• The alarming rise in crime rates is concerning to the community.
• The lack of safety measures in the workplace is concerning to employees.
• The potential side effects of the medication are concerning to patients.

When using “concerning,” it’s important to remember that it should be used to describe something that causes a sense of worry or apprehension. It should not be used to describe something that is simply of interest or relevance.

More Examples Of Disconcerting & Concerning Used In Sentences

It’s important to understand the difference between disconcerting and concerning, as they are often used interchangeably but have slightly different meanings. Here are some examples of how to use both words in sentences:

Examples Of Using Disconcerting In A Sentence

• The disconcerting news about the company’s financial troubles caused the stock to plummet.
• It was disconcerting to see how easily the security guard was bribed.
• The disconcerting silence in the room made everyone uneasy.
• Her disconcerting lack of empathy towards others was a cause for concern.
• The disconcerting behavior of the new employee made everyone on edge.
• The disconcerting noise coming from the engine made me fear for my safety.
• It was disconcerting to hear that the new medication had dangerous side effects.
• The disconcerting truth was finally revealed, much to everyone’s shock.
• His disconcerting lack of preparation for the meeting was disappointing.
• The disconcerting trend of rising crime rates in the city is alarming.

Examples Of Using Concerning In A Sentence

• The concerning rise in global temperatures is a pressing issue that needs to be addressed.
• It’s concerning to see how many people are still not taking COVID-19 seriously.
• The concerning lack of diversity in the workplace is a problem that needs to be addressed.
• Her concerning weight loss was a cause for concern among her friends and family.
• The concerning increase in cyber attacks is a threat to national security.
• It’s concerning that so many people are still without access to basic healthcare.
• The concerning number of accidents on this road has prompted officials to take action.
• His concerning behavior towards women was a red flag for his colleagues.
• The concerning amount of plastic waste in our oceans is a major environmental issue.
• The concerning lack of funding for public education is a problem that affects us all.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

When it comes to using disconcerting and concerning, people often make the mistake of using them interchangeably. However, these two words have distinct meanings that should not be confused. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when using these words:

Mistake #1: Using Disconcerting Instead Of Concerning

Disconcerting is often used to describe something that is unsettling, confusing, or even embarrassing. However, it is not interchangeable with concerning, which means worrying or troubling. For example, you might say that a loud noise is disconcerting, but it is not concerning unless it indicates a serious problem. Using disconcerting instead of concerning can give your writing a negative or overly dramatic tone.

Mistake #2: Using Concerning Instead Of Disconcerting

On the other hand, using concerning instead of disconcerting can also be a mistake. Concerning is appropriate when you want to express worry or alarm about something, while disconcerting is more about feeling uneasy or uncomfortable. For instance, you might say that a politician’s behavior is concerning if it raises questions about their integrity, but it would be disconcerting if they were caught on camera doing something embarrassing.

Mistake #3: Overusing Both Words

Another mistake to avoid is overusing both words. While disconcerting and concerning are useful for expressing emotions, they should not be used excessively. Overusing these words can make your writing sound repetitive or melodramatic. Instead, try to vary your language and use other words that convey similar meanings.

Tips To Avoid These Mistakes

Here are some tips to help you avoid these common mistakes:

• Always double-check the definition of disconcerting and concerning before using them in your writing.
• Consider the context and tone of your writing to determine which word is more appropriate.
• Try to use a variety of words to express your emotions and avoid overusing disconcerting and concerning.

Context Matters

When it comes to choosing between the words “disconcerting” and “concerning,” context is key. The connotations and implications of these two words can vary depending on the situation in which they are used.

Examples Of Different Contexts

Let’s take a look at some examples of different contexts and how the choice between disconcerting and concerning might change:

Context	Example Sentence	Preferred Word Choice
Personal Relationships	“It’s concerning that my partner hasn’t been answering my calls.”	Concerning
Medical Diagnosis	“The test results were disconcerting.”	Disconcerting
Political News	“The recent scandal is disconcerting for many voters.”	Disconcerting
Environmental Issues	“The amount of plastic in the ocean is concerning.”	Concerning

As you can see, the choice between disconcerting and concerning can depend on the specific context in which they are used. In personal relationships, concerning may be the more appropriate choice as it conveys a sense of worry or unease. However, in medical or political contexts, disconcerting may be more fitting as it suggests a feeling of confusion or alarm.

It’s important to consider the context and intended meaning when choosing between these two words. Using the wrong word can lead to misunderstandings or misinterpretations, so take the time to carefully consider the implications of your language choices.

Exceptions To The Rules

While the rules for using disconcerting and concerning are generally straightforward, there are a few exceptions where they might not apply. In these cases, it’s important to understand the nuances of each word to use them correctly.

Exceptions For Disconcerting

Disconcerting is typically used to describe something that causes unease or confusion. However, there are a few exceptions where it might be used differently:

• Positive Connotation: In some cases, disconcerting might be used to describe something that is pleasantly surprising or unexpected. For example, “The magician’s disconcerting trick left the audience in awe.”
• Physical Sensation: Disconcerting might also be used to describe a physical sensation, such as feeling dizzy or lightheaded. For example, “The disconcerting feeling in my stomach told me something was wrong.”

Exceptions For Concerning

Concerning is typically used to describe something that is worrying or alarming. However, there are a few exceptions where it might be used differently:

• Neutral Connotation: In some cases, concerning might be used to describe something that is simply of interest or relevance. For example, “The new study is concerning for researchers in the field.”
• Subjective Opinion: Concerning might also be used to express a personal opinion or perspective on a matter. For example, “Concerning the recent changes, I believe we should take a different approach.”

It’s important to note that while these exceptions exist, they are not common uses of these words. In most cases, disconcerting should be reserved for situations that cause unease or confusion, while concerning should be reserved for situations that are worrying or alarming.

Practice Exercises

Improving one’s understanding and use of disconcerting and concerning requires practice. Here are some exercises to help you become more comfortable with these words:

Exercise 1: Fill In The Blank

Fill in the blank with either disconcerting or concerning:

1. The recent rise in crime rates is _____________.
2. The strange noises coming from the basement were _____________.
3. The lack of communication from the airline was _____________.
4. The doctor’s diagnosis was _____________.
5. The movie’s ending was _____________.

Answer Key:

1. concerning
2. disconcerting
3. disconcerting
4. concerning
5. disconcerting

Exercise 2: Sentence Writing

Write a sentence using either disconcerting or concerning in the appropriate context:

• Context: A student receives a low grade on an important exam.
• Sentence: The student found the low grade on the exam to be _____________.

• Context: A person is lost in an unfamiliar city.
• Sentence: The person’s lack of familiarity with the city was _____________.

• Context: A company experiences a data breach.
• Sentence: The company’s data breach was _____________.

Answer Key:

• Context: A student receives a low grade on an important exam.
• Sentence: The student found the low grade on the exam to be disconcerting.

• Context: A person is lost in an unfamiliar city.
• Sentence: The person’s lack of familiarity with the city was concerning.

• Context: A company experiences a data breach.
• Sentence: The company’s data breach was disconcerting.

Conclusion

After exploring the differences between disconcerting and concerning, it is clear that these two words are not interchangeable. Disconcerting describes something that causes confusion or discomfort, while concerning refers to something that is worrying or important. It is important to use these words correctly in order to effectively convey the intended meaning.

When it comes to language use, it is always beneficial to continue learning and expanding one’s knowledge. By studying grammar and vocabulary, individuals can improve their communication skills and avoid common mistakes. Whether it’s through reading, taking courses, or practicing writing, there are many ways to continue learning about language use.