CHALLENGE Synonyms: 175 Similar and Opposite Words

challenge 1 of 2

noun

Definition of challenge

as in objection

a feeling or declaration of disapproval or dissent there were no serious challenges to the legislative bill, so it passed easily

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Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in problem

something that requires thought and skill for resolution the many challenges facing developing countries in the 21st century

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

challenge

2 of 2

verb

ˈcha-lənj

as in to question

to demand proof of the truth or rightness of don't hesitate to challenge any statement that generalizes about people

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in to dare

to invite (someone) to take part in a contest or to perform a feat I challenge you to swim to the other side of the pond

Synonyms & Similar Words

as in to require

to have as a requirement having to put up with an overbearing boss challenges forbearance

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of challenge

Noun

The words were simple yet meaningful in the siva tau (a traditional Samoan war dance or challenge). — Jazz Tangcay, Variety, 11 July 2026 In Spain’s Andalusia region, a combination of light winds and high humidity are helping crews but the sheer size of the fire still poses challenges, said Antonio Sanz, head of the region’s emergency services. — Sergio Rodrigo, Los Angeles Times, 11 July 2026

Verb

The only downside is that roses have a reputation for being challenging to grow. — Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 5 July 2026 Taub is often the voice of reason on the team, willing to challenge House and the other doctors. — Danny Horn, Entertainment Weekly, 5 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for challenge

Recent Examples of Synonyms for challenge

Noun

At the time, the Department of Justice argued that the president could sidestep the Insurrection Act to send armed troops into American streets over the objection of local leaders.

— Sonja Sharp, Los Angeles Times, 10 July 2026
When a videographer understands the audience’s doubts, objections or knowledge gaps, the script, visuals and tone become more intentional.

— Tavares Beverly, Forbes.com, 10 July 2026

Definition of objection

Noun

But local hoteliers say the proposal is riddled with problems, would unfairly impact hotels more than other businesses and might violate state law by applying flat fees to hotels instead of per-worker charges.

— David Garrick, San Diego Union-Tribune, 9 July 2026
StubHub said in various statements to the news and in legal proceedings that ticket cancellations were a result of transfer problems and issues with FIFA’s ticketing infrastructure.

— Lily Wright, Los Angeles Times, 9 July 2026

Definition of problem

Verb

Rather than questioning Tuchel’s right to criticise, Kane took his manager’s side.

— Jack Pitt-Brooke, New York Times, 14 July 2026
In past hearings, Paul has frequently questioned the former White House medical adviser about bat coronavirus research at the Wuhan Institute of Virology in China.

— David Zimmermann, The Washington Examiner, 13 July 2026

Definition of question

Verb

Substitute Desire Doue provided the magic, tiptoeing past opponents in the penalty area and daring a dangling leg from Diego Gomez.

— Adam Crafton, New York Times, 5 July 2026
Over 1,100 competitors daring to make it to the top of the country’s largest seven-day table tennis tournament will compete through July 9 at the San Jose McEnery Convention Center.

— Kyle Martin, Mercury News, 4 July 2026

Definition of dare

Verb

If Washington intends to withdraw forces, assets or capabilities, allies need a roadmap and a timeline.

— Elsa Ohlen, CNBC, 6 July 2026
Schjelderup, who assisted the second goal, too, jumped onto Haaland’s back again and pointed down at him, as if anyone in MetLife Stadium that day, or anyone watching at home, needed to know where to direct their attention.

— Tim Rohan, NBC news, 6 July 2026

Definition of need

Noun

Disney’s live-action remakes have largely been box-office boons for the company, with a few exceptions.

— Samantha Masunaga, Los Angeles Times, 9 July 2026
The suit alleges The Bay Club does not fall under that exception because parents are not necessarily always on the premises.

— Marlene Lenthang, NBC news, 9 July 2026

Definition of exception

Noun

Few fans walk to game Though traffic has generally been better around the stadium since the last time Argentina was in town, some fans are still taking matters into their own hands, seen walking along the road two hours leading up to kickoff.

— The Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 12 July 2026
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is expected to travel to Oman on Saturday to discuss the Strait of Hormuz and broader regional developments, a source familiar with the matter told CNN Friday.

— Rhea Mogul, CNN Money, 11 July 2026

Definition of matter

Verb

They were caught with 18 kilometers left by the chasing pack as teams looked to place their leading sprinter in position to contest the victory.

— ABC News, ABC News, 10 July 2026
That was enough to satisfy West Grove church and community groups, leaving only the Preserve the West Grove group to contest the plan on Thursday.

— Andres Viglucci, Miami Herald, 10 July 2026

Definition of contest

Browse Nearby Words

chalky

challenge

challenged

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Challenge.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/challenge. Accessed 14 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of challenge

noun

verb

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