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The Vocabulary Builder Workbook of Adjectives

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challenging

adjective

/ˈtʃæl ɪn dʒɪŋ/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of challenging

Requiring considerable effort, skill, or determination to accomplish or overcome.
"The marathon course was known for its challenging terrain and steep inclines."

Detailed meaning of challenging

It implies a level of difficulty, complexity, or demanding nature that pushes individuals out of their comfort zones and tests their abilities. A challenging task, situation, or goal often requires individuals to think critically, problem-solve, and exhibit perseverance in order to succeed. It may involve overcoming obstacles, facing adversity, or navigating through unfamiliar territory. The adjective 'challenging' is often associated with growth and personal development, as it encourages individuals to stretch their limits and expand their capabilities. Engaging in challenging activities can lead to enhanced learning, skill acquisition, and the cultivation of resilience. Whether it's a challenging project, course, or endeavor, the adjective 'challenging' conveys a sense of rigor and the potential for great rewards upon successful completion.

Example sentences containing challenging

1. The puzzle proved to be quite challenging, requiring hours of concentration.
2. She eagerly accepted the challenging role in the play, eager to push her acting skills to new limits.
3. The math problem posed a challenging task for the students, testing their problem-solving abilities.
4. The professor assigned a challenging research paper that would require extensive analysis and critical thinking.
5. The chess match between the grandmasters was intense and challenging, with each move requiring strategic foresight.
6. The escape room provided a challenging experience as participants had to solve complex puzzles and riddles to escape.

History and etymology of challenging

The adjective 'challenging' is directly derived from the noun 'challenge.' As previously discussed, 'challenge' comes from the Middle English word 'chalenge,' which, in turn, evolved from the Old French term 'chalenge' or 'chalenge.' These Old French words were influenced by the Latin 'calumniari,' meaning 'to accuse falsely' or 'to deceive.' Over time, 'challenging' emerged to describe situations, tasks, or endeavors that require considerable effort, skill, or determination to accomplish or overcome. It retains the essence of presenting difficulties or obstacles that one must confront and surmount, emphasizing the level of effort or expertise needed to successfully meet such challenges. The etymology of 'challenging' underscores the demanding and sometimes adversarial nature of these situations, highlighting the need for resolve and skill in facing them.

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Further usage examples of challenging

1. The hiking trail offered stunning views but presented challenging obstacles, such as rocky terrain and narrow paths.
2. The advanced-level yoga class was physically demanding and mentally challenging, pushing participants to their limits.
3. The coding project posed a challenging problem that required innovative solutions and meticulous debugging.
4. The negotiation process with the stubborn client proved to be a challenging task for the sales team.
5. The engineering competition required participants to design and build a working prototype within a challenging time frame.
6. Climbing Mount Everest is a challenging endeavor.
7. Learning a new language can be intellectually challenging.
8. The challenging puzzle took hours to solve.
9. Writing a novel is a mentally challenging task.
10. Overcoming adversity can be emotionally challenging.
11. His job is both physically and mentally challenging.
12. Running a marathon is a physically challenging feat.
13. The advanced math course is academically challenging.
14. Raising a toddler can be a challenging experience.
15. Building a successful business is financially challenging.
16. Sailing across the ocean is a logistically challenging journey.
17. The escape room presented a mentally challenging scenario.
18. Her career in medicine is professionally challenging.
19. Solving complex equations can be intellectually challenging.
20. Developing new technology is scientifically challenging.
21. Performing surgery is a physically and mentally challenging task.
22. Surviving in the wilderness can be physically challenging.
23. Completing a triathlon is athletically challenging.
24. Navigating through a maze is mentally challenging.