“Concerning” is a word that often piques the curiosity of IELTS students. Can it be used effectively to introduce an essay topic? The answer is both yes and no. While “concerning” is grammatically sound, its suitability depends heavily on context and how it’s employed. In this article, we’ll delve into the nuances of using “concerning” and its synonyms in your IELTS writing, ensuring you can introduce your essays with confidence and clarity.

Understanding “Concerning” and its Counterparts

“Concerning” acts as a formal preposition, meaning “with regard to” or “about.” It’s crucial to understand its formal tone, making it more appropriate for academic writing or formal letters than casual conversation. Let’s compare:

Example 1:

• Formal: “Concerning the recent economic downturn, several factors contributed to its severity.”
• Informal: “Regarding the recent economic downturn, there were a bunch of things that made it really bad.”

Notice how the formal example using “concerning” sounds more sophisticated and objective, suitable for an IELTS essay.

However, overusing “concerning” can make your writing sound repetitive and monotonous. That’s where synonyms come in!

LSI Keywords & Alternatives:

• Regarding
• With respect to
• In relation to
• Pertaining to
• On the subject of

These alternatives offer a broader range of formality and can be strategically used to showcase your vocabulary.

Using “Concerning” Effectively in IELTS Writing

While “concerning” might not be suitable for every essay introduction, it can be used effectively when:

1. Directly Addressing the Essay Question:

• Essay Question: Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of globalization.
• Introduction: “Concerning the complex phenomenon of globalization, both merits and drawbacks warrant careful consideration.”

Here, “concerning” directly addresses the essay topic, setting a formal tone and demonstrating a clear understanding of the task.

2. Highlighting a Specific Aspect:

• Essay Topic: The impact of social media on interpersonal relationships.
• Introduction: “Concerning the impact of social media on communication patterns, there’s a growing debate about its influence on genuine human connection.”

In this case, “concerning” zeroes in on a specific element of the broader topic, indicating focus and direction in your essay.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

While “concerning” can be useful, here’s how to avoid common mistakes:

1. Overuse: Don’t start every sentence with “concerning.” Vary your language!
2. Informal Context: Avoid “concerning” in informal writing tasks like letters to friends.
3. Awkward Phrasing: Ensure the sentence structure after “concerning” is grammatically correct and flows naturally.

Formal Essay Introduction

Alternatives for Topic Introductions

Here are some other effective ways to introduce your IELTS essay topics:

1. Direct Statement:
“Globalization has sparked considerable debate due to its multifaceted impact on societies worldwide.”

2. Rhetorical Question:
“How has social media reshaped the way we interact and form relationships in the digital age?”

3. Starting with a Statistic or Fact:
“Studies show that over 70% of the world’s population has access to some form of social media.”

4. Presenting Two Sides of an Argument:
“While globalization has fostered economic growth, concerns remain about its impact on cultural diversity.”

Conclusion

Mastering topic introductions is essential for achieving a high band score in the IELTS writing exam. While “concerning” has its place in formal introductions, remember to use it judiciously and explore a variety of introductory techniques. By understanding the nuances of language and employing a range of vocabulary, you’ll craft compelling introductions that captivate the reader and showcase your language proficiency.