challenge.

1. A task, problem or condition that requires substantial effort or ability to deal with.

2. An invitation or demand to demonstrate ability, willingness or a right in a test or confrontation.

3. To question or dispute the validity, truth or authority of someone or something.

Use it for

Words that belong together

• practical challenge
• pose a challenge

On the page

The practical challenge was coordinating the work rather than obtaining more information.

The change posed a challenge to the existing arrangements without making success impossible.

Usage notes

Primary category: analysis / argumentation / evidence. Forms: Singular challenge; plural challenges. Legacy lexical fields mirror sense 1 only. Use numbered sense fields for all meanings. Established modern English lexical item. No separate regional spelling or grammatical inflection entry. Writing functions: counterevidence assessment, argument critique, qualified assertion, formal disagreement. Disciplines: argumentation, research interpretation, social analysis. Commonness: moderately common. Third-person singular: challenges.