challenge
To question the validity, truth, or authority of something, or to invite someone to take part in a competition or a demanding task. It often involves testing someone's abilities or demanding proof for a statement.
Examples
3 of 5I challenged my brother to a race to the end of the street.
I challenged my brother to a race to the end of the street.
The lawyer decided to challenge the witness's version of the events in court.
The lawyer decided to challenge the witness's version of the events in court.
You shouldn't challenge him when he's in a bad mood.
You shouldn't challenge him when he's in a bad mood.
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of a 'Challenger' jet or athlete—they are always pushing limits and testing what is possible.
Quick Quiz
The young scientist decided to _______ the findings of the 20-year-old study.
Correct!
The correct answer is: challenge
Examples
I challenged my brother to a race to the end of the street.
everydayI challenged my brother to a race to the end of the street.
The lawyer decided to challenge the witness's version of the events in court.
formalThe lawyer decided to challenge the witness's version of the events in court.
You shouldn't challenge him when he's in a bad mood.
informalYou shouldn't challenge him when he's in a bad mood.
New evidence has emerged to challenge the existing scientific consensus on climate patterns.
academicNew evidence has emerged to challenge the existing scientific consensus on climate patterns.
The CEO encouraged the team to challenge the status quo to find more efficient solutions.
businessThe CEO encouraged the team to challenge the status quo to find more efficient solutions.
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
rise to the challenge
to show that you can deal with a difficult situation successfully
accept the challenge
to agree to do something difficult or competitive
formidable challenge
a very difficult task or opponent
Often Confused With
To oppose is to actively work against something, while to challenge is to question its validity or invite a test of skill.
Usage Notes
When used as a verb, it is often followed by a direct object (the thing or person being questioned). In academic writing, it is a key 'reporting verb' used to show disagreement with previous research.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes use 'challenge' with 'to' when questioning an idea (e.g., 'challenge to the theory'), but as a verb, it usually takes a direct object: 'challenge the theory'.
Memory Tip
Think of a 'Challenger' jet or athlete—they are always pushing limits and testing what is possible.
Word Origin
Derived from the Old French 'chalenge', which originally referred to a 'false accusation' or 'calumny'.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In Western academic and legal traditions, challenging established ideas is seen as a vital part of critical thinking and progress.
Quick Quiz
The young scientist decided to _______ the findings of the 20-year-old study.
Correct!
The correct answer is: challenge
Related Grammar Rules
Related Phrases
Related Vocabulary
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