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

Sometimes when that foundation is not built, a child develops an anxious attachment, which can lead to challenging behavior like separation anxiety. —Sherri Gordon, Parents, 22 Feb. 2026

In the other Olympic host city, Cortina, at an elevation of about 1,220 meters (4,000 feet), eight Muslim people told the AP that finding a place to pray has proven challenging. —ABC News, 22 Feb. 2026

Cryptomeria thrives under challenging conditions, tolerating salt spray, deer and rabbit browsing, and hot, dry planting sites. —Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 22 Feb. 2026

With little time to react after making a read, slow rollers and bunts can be especially challenging without experience. —Abbey Mastracco, New York Daily News, 21 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

see challenge entry 1

First Known Use

1841, in the meaning defined at sense 1