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

Kacey Musgraves, 37, reflected on her past while also moving forward to change the narrative on her challenging relationship with another beloved country star, Miranda Lambert. —Tracy Wright, FOXNews.com, 23 May 2026

Sony has been wary of committing to such an expensive undertaking in a market that is in flux and more challenging than ever. —Paul Tassi, Forbes.com, 23 May 2026

Planting a tree can offer a tangible way to help, and a sense of agency during challenging times, experts said. —Lila Seidman, Los Angeles Times, 23 May 2026

Brand said Facing the Mourning provided tools, homework and support to initiate healing from the most challenging situation. —Collaborative Colorado, Denver Post, 23 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

see challenge entry 1

First Known Use

1841, in the meaning defined at sense 1