What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
daunting
Example
The prospect of climbing a mountain can be daunting. [daunting: adjective]
Example
She found the idea of giving a speech in front of a large audience daunting. [daunting: gerund or present participle]
challenging
Example
The puzzle was challenging, but he enjoyed trying to solve it. [challenging: adjective]
Example
She found the new job challenging, but also rewarding. [challenging: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Challenging is more commonly used than daunting in everyday language. Challenging is a versatile word that can be used in a variety of contexts, while daunting is less common and tends to be used in more specific situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between daunting and challenging?
Both daunting and challenging can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, daunting may be perceived as more formal due to its less common usage.
