Concerning the matter of

Using this phrase is like steering a large ship. You don't do it quickly or casually. It usually appears at the very beginning of an email, a report, or a speech. It acts as an anchor for your first sentence. For example, you might write, Concerning the matter of the annual audit, I have several updates. Notice how it sets the theme immediately. You can also use it to pivot between two very different topics in a long document. It works best when followed by a noun or a noun phrase that sounds official. Avoid using it with slang or casual words. You wouldn't say Concerning the matter of the pizza party. That would sound like a joke! Instead, use it for things like the merger, the contract, or the scientific results. It gives you a way to categorize your thoughts before you even finish your first breath. It’s the ultimate tool for professional organization in speech. Just remember to let it breathe; don't rush it.

On a scale of 1 to 10, this phrase is a solid 11. It is 'Very Formal' and belongs in the C1-C2 level of English proficiency. You will find it in legal contracts, academic journals, and high-level corporate correspondence. It is definitely not for a Friday night out with friends. If you use it while texting a buddy, they might ask if you’ve been replaced by an AI or a 19th-century lawyer. It belongs to the 'Formal Register,' which means it follows strict rules of grammar and tone. It is polished, professional, and slightly detached. It removes the 'I' from the sentence and focuses entirely on the 'matter.' This creates a sense of objectivity and fairness. It’s the linguistic equivalent of a tuxedo. It looks great at a gala, but it’s a bit much for a trip to the grocery store. Use it when you want to sound like a seasoned professional who knows exactly what they are talking about.

You will see this phrase pop up in the most official places. Think of a CEO's email to the entire company about a restructure. Think of a lawyer's letter to a client about a court date. Even in academia, a professor might use it in the title of a research paper. On Netflix, you’ll hear it in shows like Suits or The Crown when characters are discussing affairs of state or multi-billion dollar lawsuits. It’s also common in formal complaints. If you are writing a letter to an airline about a lost suitcase, starting with Concerning the matter of my missing luggage makes you sound like someone who shouldn't be ignored. It’s also used in old-fashioned literature, which is why it has such a classic, timeless feel. It’s not a trend; it’s a staple of formal English that hasn't changed in decades.

Use this phrase when the stakes are high and the tone is serious. It is perfect for a job interview when you are asked about a specific challenge you faced. Concerning the matter of our previous project's delay, I took several steps to rectify the situation. It’s also ideal for formal documentation or meeting minutes. If you are the person taking notes, this phrase is your best friend for labeling sections. Use it when you need to sound authoritative, like when you are giving a presentation to senior management. It’s a great way to demand respect without being rude. It shows you have a high level of vocabulary and a deep understanding of professional etiquette. If you want to impress a professor or a high-level client, this is a 'power phrase' you should have in your toolkit.

Do not use this phrase in any casual or informal setting. Ever. If you are at a café and the barista asks what you want, don't say, Concerning the matter of my morning coffee, I would like a latte. You will get some very confused looks! Also, avoid it in casual group chats on WhatsApp or Discord. It will make you sound incredibly stiff and perhaps a bit arrogant. It’s also too much for a quick internal Slack message to a close teammate. You shouldn't use it when you are talking about trivial things. Concerning the matter of my broken shoelace is just funny (unless you are a shoelace inspector). Finally, don't use it if you aren't prepared to follow it up with very clear, well-structured information. It sets a high expectation for the rest of your sentence. If you start formal, you have to stay formal.

The most common mistake is overusing it. It’s like a spice; a little goes a long way. If every sentence starts with it, your writing will become unreadable. Another mistake is using the wrong preposition. People often say Concerning to the matter of or Concerning about the matter of. Both are ✗ wrong. The word concerning is already doing the work of a preposition. You also need the 'the'—saying Concerning matter of is ✗ wrong. Another funny mistake is using it with 'I' in a way that sounds clumsy. I am concerning the matter of is ✗ wrong. You should just say Concerning the matter of... I would like to say... It’s an introductory phrase, not a verb you 'do.' Finally, don't mix it with slang. Concerning the matter of that totally lit party is a crime against linguistics. Keep the vibe consistent.

If Concerning the matter of feels a bit too heavy, you have other options. Regarding is a slightly lighter, but still formal, version. In reference to is another classic used in business. If you are in a legal setting, you might see In the matter of, which is even more specific. For academic writing, With respect to or In relation to are common. If you want to be slightly less formal, just About or On works fine. Some people use As for, though that can sometimes sound a bit dismissive. In the UK, you might hear Anent in very old or Scottish contexts, but that’s extremely rare now. Stick to Concerning the matter of when you want the maximum amount of professional weight. It’s the 'Final Boss' of introductory phrases.

Is this phrase the same as 'about'? Yes, but it's much more formal. Think of 'about' as a t-shirt and this phrase as a tuxedo. Can I use it in a text? Only if you are being funny or sarcastic with a friend who knows you well. Does it go at the end of a sentence? No, it almost always starts the sentence or a new clause. Is it British or American? It is used in both, though it has a very 'High British' feel. Is it outdated? No, it is still very common in legal and corporate worlds. Can I say 'In the matter of'? Yes, but that is usually reserved for court cases or formal hearings. Is 'Concerning' a verb here? No, it functions as a preposition. Why is 'matter' used? It implies that the topic is an official item of business. Can I use it for people? Only if you are discussing their official role or a case involving them. What is the emotional vibe? Professional, serious, and slightly detached. It shows you mean business.