challenge

[ˈtʃælɪndʒ]

challenge Definition

• 1. a difficult task or situation that requires effort, skill, or courage
• 2. an invitation to compete or take part in a contest
• 3. a questioning of the truth or validity of something

Using challenge: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "challenge" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The hike up the mountain was a real challenge.

• Example

  She accepted the challenge of running a marathon.

• Example

  The challenge of learning a new language can be daunting.

• Example

  He issued a challenge to his coworkers to see who could sell the most products.

challenge Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for challenge

• difficulty
• problem
• obstacle
• hurdle
• trial

Antonyms for challenge

• aid
• assistance
• help

Idioms Using challenge

• a challenge to the throne

  a threat to someone's position of power or authority

  Example

  The rebellion was seen as a challenge to the throne.

• a challenge to the status quo

  an attempt to change or disrupt the existing state of affairs

  Example

  The new political party presented a challenge to the status quo.

• a challenge to one's beliefs

  an experience or situation that causes someone to question or reconsider their beliefs or values

  Example

  The book presented a challenge to her religious beliefs.

Phrases with challenge

• rise to the challenge

  to successfully deal with a difficult situation

  Example

  Despite the obstacles, she rose to the challenge and completed the project on time.

• throw down the gauntlet

  to issue a challenge or invitation to fight or compete

  Example

  He threw down the gauntlet and challenged his opponent to a duel.

• take up the challenge

  to accept a challenge or invitation to compete or participate

  Example

  She took up the challenge and entered the race.

Origins of challenge

from Old French 'chalenge', from Latin 'calumnia', meaning 'false accusation'

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Summary: challenge in Brief

The term 'challenge' [ˈtʃælɪndʒ] refers to difficult tasks or situations that require effort, skill, or courage. It can also mean an invitation to compete or participate in a contest, or a questioning of the truth or validity of something. Phrases like 'rise to the challenge' and 'throw down the gauntlet' denote successful handling and issuing of challenges, respectively. Idioms like 'a challenge to the throne' and 'a challenge to one's beliefs' refer to threats to power and questioning of beliefs.