challenge

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   A difficult task that tests someone's ability.

   Learning a new language is a real challenge.

2. 2
   verb

   To invite someone to compete or fight.

   We challenged the boys next door to a game of football.

3. 3
   verb

   To question whether something is right or true.

   She challenged the teacher's explanation.

4. 4
   noun

   A statement that questions or doubts something.

   His theory faced a serious challenge from other scientists.

Common collocations

• challenge someone's thinking Verb + noun

From Middle English chalenge, variant with palatalization of Middle English kalange (“an accusation, claim”), from Old French chalenge, chalonge, palatalized Central French variants of Old Northern French calenge, calonge (see Continental Norman calengier), from Latin calumnia (“a false accusation, calumny”). Cognate with Old English hōl (“calumny”). Doublet of calumny.

Topics