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

• 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

Figuring out what that number is can be quite challenging as the issue is twofold: the company's cash needs and your own personal reserves, which are separate. —Kristin McKenna, Forbes.com, 9 July 2025

Gap Easy Trousers Finding summer work pants that are both breathable and stylish can be challenging, but these petite Easy Trousers from Gap fit the bill perfectly. —Melony Forcier, Travel + Leisure, 9 July 2025

The producer said getting his hands on an original copy of the Carter song on LP proved challenging, and expensive, signaling a cult following for such music. —Miles Socha, Footwear News, 9 July 2025

The well in Maria Burns' yard was particularly challenging, in part because the old plug also had to be removed. —Camila Domonoske, NPR, 8 July 2025

Word History

Etymology

see challenge entry 1

First Known Use

1841, in the meaning defined at sense 1