We are naturally concerned very much by/about our appearance.
In this sentence, which preposition should be used, by or about? Are there any other prepositions used after the word "concerned"? Thanks in advance.
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I would pick "about", since "by" seems to imply wilful action.– CowperKettleCommented Feb 23, 2016 at 8:41
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Thank you, CopperKettle. I found the sentence in a test question.– thein lwinCommented Feb 23, 2016 at 8:53
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@CopperK - I would choose "about" also, but for a different reason. We simply tend to use about more than by with concerned.– J.R. ♦Commented Feb 23, 2016 at 9:49
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BTW I think you should say: very much concerned not concerned very much– drM.Commented Feb 23, 2016 at 9:54
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2 Answers
"About" is the correct choice because "by" implies action on the part of "appearance". E.G.
I was pulled over by a trooper
He was hit by a bus
That book is by John Smith
Alternately, you might use "concerned with", but really "concerned about" is most common.
answered Feb 23, 2016 at 12:47
I could depend on "how" (by what method) you saw yourselves -- perhaps in a mirror, on a TV broadcast, reflected in a window, or in your minds' eyes?
In other words, if it was a physical sight, a reflection for example, then "by" is appropriate. This is like saying, "when I saw my reflection, I was shocked by it."
If you are thinking about how you look, then "about" is more appropriate, as the previous answer says. "I spent a lot of time getting dressed because I was concerned about my appearance."
