- present participle of challenge.
challenging
Americanadjective
-
offering a challenge; testing one's ability, endurance, etc.
a challenging course;
a challenging game.
-
stimulating, interesting, and thought-provoking.
a challenging suggestion.
-
provocative; intriguing.
a challenging smile.
adjective
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of challenging
First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English, as a gerund; 1835–45 for sense of "testing one's ability"; see challenge ( def. ), -ing 2 ( def. )
Explanation
If something is challenging, you better bring your "A game." It isn't going to be easy but you will get to test your skills as you push yourself, like completing a challenging crossword puzzle or a challenging hike up a mountain. Another meaning of challenging is "causing to question values or assumptions," like a challenging movie that makes you re-evaluate your attitude about something. In other words, it challenges what you believe. People sometimes use challenging as a polite — and far more positive — substitute for troublesome or problematic, as in, "This challenging situation will require everyone's patience."
Vocabulary lists containing challenging
Academic Vocabulary Toolkit 1, Words 11-20
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Towers Falling
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Persuasive and Assertive Tones
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
With an unchanged buy rating on the stock, UBS analysts acknowledge the continued impact on fuel costs of the U.S.-Iran conflict, but say the Australian carrier’s performance to date highlights its flexibility amid challenging circumstances.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 28, 2026
While he did not know what the situation for his comeback would be, he has rejoined the club during their most challenging time - and opted to donate his salary to Zaragoza's foundation.
From BBC ● Aug. 27, 2026
The Constitutional Court said Tuesday it had not received any petition challenging the election outcome, clearing the way for Hichilema's inauguration.
From Barron's ● Aug. 27, 2026
That makes complete surgical removal extremely challenging because surgeons must avoid damaging healthy areas of the brain.
From Science Daily ● Aug. 27, 2026
“Are you challenging me?” the Huntsman asked disbelievingly.
From "Half Upon a Time" by James Riley
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
