challenge Definition
- 1a difficult task or situation that requires effort, skill, or courage
- 2an invitation to compete or take part in a contest
- 3a 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'
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.
