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challenge

chal·lenge

challenge

 
 
pronunciation:
chae lihnj
parts of speech:
noun, transitive verb, intransitive verb
features:
Word Combinations (noun, verb), Word Explorer, Grammatical Patterns
part of speech: noun
definition 1: a provocative or stimulating invitation to enter into a battle or other contest of skill.
He accepted the man's challenge and prepared to duel with him.The champion has issued a challenge to all who seek to defeat him.
synonyms:
dare
similar words:
defiance, gage, invitation, provocation, summons
definition 2: an interesting or difficult problem or task.
Coming up with a fair and efficient welfare system will be quite a challenge.
 
synonyms:
poser, problem
antonyms:
cinch, snap
similar words:
obstacle, test, venture
definition 3: a calling into question; demand for justification.
The president viewed the criticism as a challenge to his administration.
synonyms:
dissent, protest
similar words:
denunciation, objection, opposition, questioning
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part of speech: transitive verb
inflections: challenges, challenging, challenged
definition 1: to invite, esp. in a provocative manner, to enter into a battle or other contest of skill.
He challenged the impudent fellow to a duel.They challenged their opponents to a rematch.His friends challenged him to steal the answer key to the exam.[verb + smby/smth + infinitive ]
synonyms:
dare, defy
similar words:
call, invite, provoke, summon
definition 2: to bring into question; take exception to.
He challenged the advisability of starting such a project in the winter.Other scientists challenged the results of the study.
synonyms:
contest, dispute, object to, oppugn, take exception to
similar words:
contradict, controvert, criticize, denounce, deny, disagree with, oppose, protest, question
definition 3: to stimulate; arouse.
This book will challenge your intellect.A good teacher will try to challenge his or her students.
synonyms:
arouse, excite, inspire, stimulate
similar words:
stretch, tax
 
part of speech: intransitive verb
definition: to make or issue a challenge.
We will challenge, and we won't give up till we've won.
synonyms:
enter the lists
similar words:
oppose
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derivation: challenger (n.)
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