challenge*/*/

[ˈtʃælɪndʒ] noun I

1) [C/U] something that needs a lot of skill, energy, and determination to deal with or achieve

I felt I needed a new challenge at work.[/ex]

Are western nations ready to meet the environmental challenges that lie ahead?[/ex]

The new government faces the challenge of completing the building on time.[/ex]

2) [C] an action or idea that questions whether something is true, fair, accurate, legal etc

Recent discoveries present a serious challenge to accepted views on the age of the universe.[/ex]

The strike was a direct challenge to the authority of the government.[/ex]

3) [C] an occasion when someone tries to win a game or competition

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Words often used with challenge Adjectives often used with challenge (noun, sense 1) ■ daunting, formidable, major, serious + CHALLENGE: used about a challenge that worries or frightens you Verbs often used with challenge (noun, sense 1) ■ accept, rise to + CHALLENGE: deal with a challenge in a brave way ■ pose, present + CHALLENGE: create a challenge that you must deal with ■ enjoy, relish + CHALLENGE: enjoy being challenged II

verb [T]

challenge [ˈtʃælɪndʒ]

1) to question whether something is true, fair, accurate, legal etc

This decision is likely to be challenged by the oil companies.[/ex]

The president has accused the governor of challenging his leadership.[/ex]

2) to invite someone to compete or fight

The girls challenged the boys to a cricket match.[/ex]