challenging

adjective

chal·​leng·​ing ˈcha-lən-jiŋ 

1

: arousing competitive interest, thought, or action

a challenging course of study

a challenging job

2

: invitingly provocative : fascinating

a challenging personality

challenging questions

challengingly

ˈcha-lən-jiŋ-lē 

adverb

Synonyms of challenging

• difficult
• tough
• rigorous
• demanding
• hard

Examples of challenging in a Sentence

I find the job challenging and fun.

Teaching is challenging but rewarding work.

It's a challenging book that requires careful reading.

The slope was challenging for even the most experienced climbers.

Recent Examples on the Web

So, comedically, it's been very challenging. —Raechal Shewfelt, Entertainment Weekly, 9 Jan. 2026

While not everyone gets their wishes, those with no interest in taking on the deceptive — and challenging — role of a Traitor likely won't be chosen. —Jordana Comiter, PEOPLE, 9 Jan. 2026

But last month, Critchfield backed off in the face of a challenging state budget. —Becca Savransky, Idaho Statesman, 8 Jan. 2026

Getting active after open heart surgery can be mentally challenging as well as physically challenging. —Nicole Villalpando, Austin American Statesman, 8 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

see challenge entry 1

First Known Use

1841, in the meaning defined at sense 1