Disconcerting vs. Concerning — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on April 22, 2024
"Disconcerting" refers to something that causes a feeling of discomfort, unease, or confusion, while "concerning" indicates something that causes worry or is troubling.
Difference Between Disconcerting and Concerning
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
"Disconcerting" typically describes situations or behaviors that unsettle or throw one off balance, such as a strange noise in a quiet house, whereas "concerning" is used to describe circumstances that evoke worry or alarm, like a sudden drop in a student's grades.
The emotional response elicited by something disconcerting is often related to being puzzled or disturbed, which might not necessarily invoke fear or anxiety; on the other hand, something concerning directly relates to anxiety or fear about potential consequences or dangers.
"Disconcerting" can be used to describe odd or unexpected actions that disrupt one’s mental comfort or composure, for example, an unusual acting choice in a theater play. In contrast, "concerning" would be used for more serious issues that require attention or action, such as symptoms of an illness.
In literature or art, "disconcerting" might be used to describe a narrative twist or artistic choice that is intentionally unsettling, designed to challenge the audience. Conversely, "concerning" in a review or critique would suggest aspects that negatively affect the overall quality or experience, potentially worrying the audience or critics.
"Disconcerting" often refers to the nature of something that is inherently unsettling, without implications of immediate danger, while "concerning" suggests a more urgent need for attention due to potential risks or negative outcomes.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Causing discomfort or confusion
Causing worry or alarm
Emotional Response
Unease, disturbance
Anxiety, worry
Usage
Describes unsettling or perplexing events
Used for situations needing attention due to risk
Examples
An unexpected sound at night, an odd behavior in a friend
Symptoms of an illness, a warning about a storm
Implication
Often non-threatening but unsettling
Potentially dangerous or harmful
Compare with Definitions
Disconcerting
Leading to confusion or discomfort.
His disconcerting habit of staring made people avoid conversation with him.
Concerning
Provoking alarm or apprehension.
His absence from school for a week was concerning.
Disconcerting
Perturbing the normal state or peace of mind.
The play’s disconcerting ending left the audience in thoughtful silence.
Concerning
Indicating potential trouble.
The engine’s concerning noise became louder with each mile.
Disconcerting
Causing an emotional disturbance.
The disconcerting silence in the office made everyone uneasy.
Concerning
Linked with issues that demand immediate action.
The increase in local crime is concerning to residents.
Disconcerting
Making one feel out of place or embarrassed.
The teacher’s disconcerting questions challenged the students' understanding.
Concerning
Requiring attention because of possible danger.
The weather forecast is concerning. we might need to cancel our trip.
Disconcerting
Unexpected and unsettling.
It was disconcerting to find the door open when she returned home.
Concerning
Worthy of worry or care.
The concerning symptoms prompted an immediate visit to the doctor.
Disconcerting
Causing one to feel unsettled
He had a disconcerting habit of offering jobs to people he met at dinner parties
Concerning
On the subject of or in connection with; about
We are given little information concerning matters of national security
Disconcerting
To cause to lose composure; embarrass or confuse
He was disconcerted by the teacher's angry tone.
Concerning
Causing anxiety; worrying
I find many of the comments very concerning
A concerning breach of security
Disconcerting
To frustrate (plans, for example) by throwing into disorder; disarrange.
Concerning
In reference to. See Usage Note at participle.
Disconcerting
Tending to cause discomfort, uneasiness or alarm.
Even with a safety harness, losing one's grip that high up is disconcerting.
Concerning
Causing concern; worrying.
Disconcerting
Hard to deal with; causing uncertainty or confusion about how to act or react.
Concerning
(obsolete) Important.
Disconcerting
Causing an emotional disturbance;
His disconcerting habit of greeting friends ferociously and strangers charmingly
An upsetting experience
Concerning
Regarding, respecting.
Physically, everything is perfect, but concerning your mental state, you have some problems.
Concerning
Present participle of concern
Concerning
That which one is concerned in; one's business.
Concerning
Pertaining to; regarding; having relation to; respecting; as regards.
I have accepted thee concerning this thing.
The Lord hath spoken good concerning Israel.
Concerning
Important.
So great and so concerning truth.
Concerning
That in which one is concerned or interested; concern; affair; interest.
To mix with thy concernments I desist.
Concerning
Importance; moment; consequence.
Let every action of concernment to begun with prayer.
Concerning
Concern; participation; interposition.
He married a daughter to the earl without any other approbation of her father or concernment in it, than suffering him and her come into his presence.
Concerning
Emotion of mind; solicitude; anxiety.
While they are so eager to destroy the fame of others, their ambition is manifest in their concernment.
Common Curiosities
What makes something disconcerting?
Something is disconcerting if it unsettles or confuses, often in a subtle or unexpected way.
How do the emotional impacts of "disconcerting" and "concerning" differ?
"Disconcerting" typically relates to mental discomfort or confusion, while "concerning" invokes a sense of worry about future implications or dangers.
Can a situation be both disconcerting and concerning?
Yes, a situation can be both if it is unsettling and also poses a risk or problem that needs addressing.
What types of actions are typically called disconcerting?
Actions that are unusual, unexpected, or socially awkward can be described as disconcerting.
When should I use "concerning" instead of "disconcerting"?
Use "concerning" when describing situations that evoke worry or require attention due to potential risks.
Is "disconcerting" ever used in a positive context?
Rarely, as it primarily denotes negative feelings of discomfort or confusion.
What is a synonym for "concerning"?
Worrisome or alarming can be used as synonyms.
Can "disconcerting" describe physical sensations?
It usually describes emotional or psychological reactions, less often physical ones.
Is "concerning" used in professional settings?
Yes, it is commonly used in medical, educational, and professional contexts to express concerns about conditions or situations.
What types of literature or media might use "disconcerting"?
Thrillers, horror, or psychological dramas often use this term to describe atmosphere or character actions.
What is a synonym for "disconcerting"?
Perplexing or unsettling are close synonyms.
How do the connotations of "disconcerting" and "concerning" affect their use in speech?
The choice depends on whether the emphasis is on the emotional reaction (disconcerting) or the potential need for action (concerning).
How might a company address a concerning issue?
Through direct action, policy changes, or public communications to mitigate risks and reassure stakeholders.
How can I respond to something concerning?
Addressing the root cause or seeking help from relevant authorities or professionals is recommended.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
