the concern was

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the concern was" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a specific issue or problem that was raised or discussed in a previous context. Example: "The concern was that the project would not meet its deadline due to unforeseen circumstances."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

Still, the concern was real.

The New Yorker

The concern was bipartisan.

The New York Times

And much of the concern was cosmetic.

The Economist

The concern was the refrigeration system.

The New York Times

The concern was well placed.

The Washington Post

Pickering & Company, as the concern was known, grew.

The New York Times

The concern was echoed by Franckowiak in Minneapolis.

The Guardian

The concern was founded by his great‐grand father.

The New York Times

Rather, the concern was to preserve the party's purity.

The Guardian

But that aside, they said the concern was warranted.

The New York Times

The concern was hardly irrational — he was a drug dealer.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the concern was", ensure the context clearly establishes what the concern refers to. Provide specific details immediately following the phrase to avoid ambiguity. For instance: "The concern was the potential for increased costs, which could affect project timelines."

Common error

Avoid using "the concern was" without clearly defining what the concern is. A common mistake is assuming the reader knows the subject, leading to confusion. For example, instead of saying "The concern was addressed", specify: "The concern regarding data privacy was addressed with new security protocols."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the concern was" acts as a transitional phrase, introducing a specific issue or problem. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and high frequency. It commonly functions to frame the central point of discussion or worry in a narrative or report, as seen in examples where it prefaces explanations of risks, logistical problems, or ethical dilemmas.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the concern was" serves as a pivotal phrase used to introduce a specific issue or problem, setting the stage for further discussion or analysis. Ludwig AI indicates it is grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts, particularly in news, scientific, and academic writing. When employing this phrase, clarity is key; ensure the context makes it immediately evident what the concern refers to. Consider alternatives such as "the worry centered on" or "the primary issue involved" for nuanced expression. This phrase is your friend to provide the right angle to the subject. Ludwig confirms it.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the worry centered on

Emphasizes the central point of anxiety or apprehension.

the significant anxiety focused on

Emphasizes a notable worry and its object.

the key consideration involved

Points out a vital element that needs to be taken into account.

the main apprehension revolved around

Focuses on the chief anxiety and its scope.

the overriding fear related to

Signifies the most dominant fear associated with something.

the primary issue involved

Highlights the main problem or complication at hand.

the chief reservation concerned

Indicates the foremost doubt or hesitation.

the crucial matter pertained to

Indicates a critical aspect related to a particular subject.

the fundamental problem was

Identifies the underlying issue or core difficulty.

the central question addressed

Highlights the main inquiry being examined or discussed.

FAQs

How can I use "the concern was" in a sentence?

You can use "the concern was" to introduce a specific issue or problem that has been previously mentioned or is about to be explained. For instance, "The concern was mortality risk, i.e. the risk of premature death."

What can I say instead of "the concern was"?

Alternatives include "the worry centered on", "the main issue involved", or "the primary issue was", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "a concern was" instead of "the concern was"?

Yes, but the meaning differs. "A concern was" introduces one of several concerns, while "the concern was" refers to a specific, already identified or primary concern. For example: "A concern was raised about funding" versus "The concern was the lack of funding".

What's the difference between "the concern was" and "the concerns were"?

"The concern was" refers to a singular, specific issue. "The concerns were" indicates multiple issues. Example: "The concern was project delays". Plural: "The concerns were project delays and budget overruns".