- Used to introduce an opinion, clearly stating that it is the speaker's personal viewpoint and may not be shared by others or be an objective fact.
- It emphasizes the subjective nature of the following statement.
Explanation
Origin
- A standard idiomatic phrase. Concerned here means relevant to or affecting the interests of.
- So, the phrase means within the scope of what is relevant or important to me, effectively meaning in my opinion.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- The way I see it...
- Personally...
- If you ask me...
- My take is...
Vulgar/Emphatic (Often used to state a strong, non-negotiable personal stance):
- As far as I'm fucking concerned... (Adds strong emphasis)
- I don't give a damn what anyone else thinks, ... (Dismisses other views before stating own)
More Formal:
- In my view...
- From my standpoint...
- It is my assessment that...
Situational Appropriateness
- Appropriate in most informal and semi-formal contexts.
- Useful for stating opinions clearly while acknowledging their subjectivity.
- Can sometimes sound slightly dismissive or final, depending on the context and tone (e.g., As far as I'm concerned, the discussion is over.).
Misunderstanding Warnings
- The phrase clearly marks subjectivity. Learners shouldn't mistake the following statement for objective fact.
- Ensure the tone doesn't make it sound overly dismissive of other viewpoints unless intended.
Examples
- As far as I'm concerned, the matter is closed.
- Pizza is the best food, as far as I'm concerned.
- As far as I'm concerned, you can do whatever you want. (Implying the speaker won't interfere or object).
Dialogue
Layla: Should we invite Mark to the party? Some people don't get along with him.
Omar: As far as I'm concerned, everyone should be invited. It's an open event.
Layla: Okay, fair point. As far as I'm concerned, that settles it then.
Social Media Examples
- Tweet: As far as I'm concerned, pineapple on pizza is delicious. Don't @ me. # controversiopinion #pizza
- Forum Post: As far as I'm concerned, this update made the software worse, not better.
- Comment: Great article! As far as I'm concerned, you hit the nail on the head regarding the main issue.
Response Patterns
- Acknowledgement: Okay, that's your view., Right.
- Agreement: I agree., That's how I see it too.
- Disagreement: Well, I see it differently., I disagree, because...
- Seeking clarification: Why do you feel that way?
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
After hearing As far as I'm concerned... [opinion]:
- The listener might state their own contrasting opinion (Well, as far as *I'm* concerned...).
- They might ask the speaker to justify their viewpoint (What makes you say that?).
- They might simply accept it as the speaker's personal take (Fair enough.).
Conversation Starter
- No. It introduces a personal viewpoint within an existing conversation or in response to a question.
Intonation
- Emphasis often falls on I'M or CONCERNED. As far as I'M concerned... or As far as I'm CONCERNED...
- Usually spoken with a neutral or slightly assertive tone, depending on the opinion being expressed.
Generation Differences
- Widely used and understood across most adult generations.
Regional Variations
- Common in all major English-speaking regions.