Challenge

Definition

Challenge is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a task or situation that tests someone's abilities, or a call to engage in a contest or competition. As a verb, it means to invite someone to engage in a contest or to question the validity of something.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈtʃælɪndʒ/
• Respelling: CHAL-inj

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈtʃælɪndʒ/
• Respelling: CHAL-inj

Etymology

The word "challenge" originates from the Latin "calumnia," meaning "false accusation" or "slander," which became "chalenge" in Old French with the meaning of accusation or dispute. The term entered Middle English as "chalenge," evolving to its modern sense of inviting competition or questioning.

Derivatives

• Challenger (noun)
• Challenging (adjective)
• Challenged (adjective)
• Rechallenge (verb)
• Challengeable (adjective)

Synonyms

• Test
• Obstacle
• Confront

Antonyms

• Agreement
• Acceptance
• Assent

Usage

The noun "challenge" is used to describe situations that test one’s abilities, as in "The hike was a real challenge." As a verb, it can mean to confront or contest something, e.g., "She challenged the decision in court."

Related Terms

• Contest: An event in which people compete.
• Dispute: A disagreement or argument.
• Obstacle: Something that impedes progress or achievement.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A task or situation that tests someone’s abilities: Refers to difficult situations or activities requiring effort or skill.
  • Example: "Completing the project was a huge challenge."
• A call to participate in a competition or contest: Describes an invitation to compete or prove oneself.
  • Example: "He accepted the challenge to run in the marathon."

Verb

• To invite someone to engage in a competition or test: Refers to prompting someone to contest or compete in something.
  • Example: "She challenged him to a game of chess."
• To question the truth or validity of something: Used to indicate an act of disputing or questioning an idea or decision.
  • Example: "They challenged the accuracy of the report."