The Misuse of Words in Modern English: Concerning and Unique

Language is a living entity, constantly evolving with the times. However, as words evolve, they sometimes take on unintended meanings that can cause significant confusion. In this essay, we will explore two common instances of word misuse: the overuse of 'concerning' as an adjective and the incorrect application of 'unique.' These mishaps not only affect written and spoken communication but can also lead to misunderstandings and misinterpretations.

The Evolution of 'Concerning'

Once a preposition, 'concerning' has found a new life as an adjective. This shift in usage has led to its current widespread misuse. As other responders have pointed out, when a word becomes so commonly used in a different context, it can be accepted to mean something different from its original definition. For instance:

We met with the traffic director concerning the installation of a stop sign at the crosswalk. Seth and I had a conversation concerning the new supermarket under construction. The manager’s weak approach to dealing with issues concerning habitually late employees is unacceptable.

These examples illustrate 'concerning' as a preposition. However, it is now often used to describe something that is cause for concern, worrisome, alarming, or troublesome. This misuse further highlights the evolution of language:

I find some Facebook content disconcerting.
It’s disconcerting to see so many students flout the dress code.
Her careless driving habits were disconcerting.

While some well-educated individuals still use 'disconcerting' correctly, the frequency of its misuse suggests that it may be accepted as a more flexible term. This raises the question: if 'concerning' means cause for concern, worrisome, alarming, or troublesome, what does 'disconcerting' mean? Will it be eliminated from the English language?

The Importance of 'Unique'

Another misused word is 'unique.' As unique means 'one of a kind' with no other things or events like it, it should never be modified by adverbs such as 'very' or 'somewhat.' For instance:

QED: Since unique means 'one of a kind,' THERE CAN BE NO MODIFIER TO THE WORD UNIQUE. It is either unique or it is not.

The HIV virus was thought to be unique in its ability to mutate within the cell in 1980. This Michelin chef serves a unique rendering of liver bacon and onions. The binary system recently captured by the Hubble telescope is unique in its orbit.

Each of these examples highlights an event or thing that is one of a kind, with no others like it. The misuse of 'unique' by adding qualifying words undermines the very essence of the word's meaning.

The Impact of Misuse on Communication

Language misuse can have significant effects on communication. Confusion can arise when writers and speakers use words in a manner that deviates from their intended purpose. This can lead to misunderstandings and misinterpretations, particularly in formal or academic contexts. For example, when someone says, 'I find his behavior concerning, ' the listener may ask, 'His behavior concerning what?' This underscores the importance of precise language use in clear and effective communication.

Moreover, the widespread misuse of these words can also affect the clarity of written and spoken communication. Educators and writers must be vigilant in ensuring that they use these words correctly to maintain the integrity of language and avoid unnecessary confusion.

Conclusion

Language is a complex and dynamic system, and the misuse of words such as 'concerning' and 'unique' can have far-reaching effects. The evolution of language over time is natural, but it is important to recognize and correct these changes to maintain the clarity and precision of communication. By being mindful of these nuances, we can ensure that our language use remains both effective and understandable.

Words like 'concerning' and 'unique' have unique qualities and meanings. It is crucial to use them correctly to convey the intended message and maintain the integrity of the language. As language continues to evolve, it is the responsibility of all communicators to stay aware and up-to-date with these changes to ensure clear and accurate communication.