challenge
/ˈtʃæl.ɪndʒ/A challenge is something difficult that tests your skill, strength, or patience. It can also be a problem or situation that needs effort to deal with.
- This exam is a real challenge.
- Rising costs are a big challenge for families.
- She enjoys a new challenge at work.
To challenge someone means to question, oppose, or ask them to prove something. It can also mean to invite someone to compete or try to do something difficult.
- He challenged the decision in court.
- Nobody challenged her answer.
- The coach challenged the team to improve.
Adinary Nuance
Challenge is stronger than difficulty because it often suggests effort and growth, not just trouble. It is also more active than problem; a challenge can be something you face and try to overcome. In speaking and writing, people often use it for tests, work goals, and hard situations that are still worth doing.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- thách thức
- Spanish
- desafío
- Chinese
- 挑战
- Japanese
- 挑戦
- Korean
- 도전
Etymology
Challenge came into English from Old French in the Middle Ages. It goes back to Latin calumnia, meaning a false claim or accusation.
Common phrases
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is challenge a formal word?
- It is common in both everyday and formal English. It works well in IELTS and academic writing.
- What is the difference between challenge and problem?
- A problem is usually something unwanted. A challenge can be hard, but it may also feel exciting or useful.
- Can challenge be used as a verb?
- Yes. You can challenge an idea, a decision, or a person.
- Is challenging a positive word?
- Often, yes. It usually means difficult in a way that helps you improve.