Challenged: meaning, definitions and examples

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challenged

 

[ˈtʃalɪndʒd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

in a competitive context

Having a competitive nature or being eager to take on difficult tasks or obstacles.

Synonyms

ambitious, competitive, determined.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
challenged

This word is often used when someone is facing difficulties or obstacles in accomplishing something. It can sometimes have a negative connotation.

  • He felt challenged by the complexity of the project.
  • She is academically challenged but works hard to overcome it.
competitive

This word describes a person who strives to win or be better than others in a contest or conflict.

  • He is extremely competitive and hates to lose.
  • The competitive nature of the job market requires constant improvement.
determined

This word is used for someone who has firmly decided to do something and will not let anything stop them.

  • She is determined to finish her degree despite all the challenges.
  • With a determined mindset, he overcame all obstacles.
ambitious

This word is used to describe someone who has a strong desire to achieve great things, often in their career or personal goals.

  • She is very ambitious and hopes to be a CEO one day.
  • His ambitious plans include expanding the business globally.

Examples of usage

  • She is a challenged athlete who never gives up.
  • The team is looking for challenged individuals to join their ranks.
Context #2 | Verb

to question the truth or validity of something

To question or dispute the truth or validity of something.

Synonyms

contest, dispute, question.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
challenged

Use this when someone is facing a difficulty or obstacle, often implying that they are trying to overcome it.

  • She felt challenged by the advanced math class
  • Despite being challenged, he managed to complete the marathon
question

Use this when someone is expressing doubt or seeking information, often implying a need for clarification or further understanding.

  • He began to question the validity of the research
  • The student had a question about the homework assignment
dispute

This is suitable for situations where there is a conflict or disagreement, usually involving different opinions or claims.

  • The workers decided to dispute the new company policies
  • The neighbors had a dispute over the property line
contest

Use this when referring to a competition or an attempt to win something, often implying active participation.

  • She entered the baking contest with high hopes
  • There was a fierce contest between the two rival teams

Examples of usage

  • She challenged his decision to fire the employee.
  • The scientist challenged the existing theory with new evidence.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'challenge' comes from the Latin 'cāllāre,' meaning 'to call out.'
  • In Middle English, 'challengen' meant to confront someone, which is similar to its use today.
  • The suffix '-ed' indicates that the action has already happened, like being in the state of facing challenges.

Psychology

  • Facing challenges can boost confidence and improve problem-solving skills.
  • The feeling of being challenged often leads to growth and a better understanding of one’s abilities.
  • Research shows that overcoming difficulties can increase resilience, helping individuals cope with future stress.

Education

  • In classrooms, students who are challenged appropriately show higher engagement and motivation.
  • Challenge-based learning encourages students to work on real-world problems, blending knowledge with practical experience.
  • Teachers often differentiate work to ensure each student is adequately challenged, enhancing learning.

Pop Culture

  • Popular talent competitions often feature challengers who must showcase their skills under pressure.
  • Movies frequently depict protagonists who face and overcome significant challenges, inspiring audiences with themes of perseverance.
  • Social media challenges, like the Ice Bucket Challenge, create community engagement while promoting awareness of important issues.

Social Constructs

  • Social challenges can refer to issues like homelessness or access to education, requiring community and governmental efforts to address.
  • Challenges related to equality often prompt movements striving for social justice and fair treatment for all.
  • The concept of being challenged is central to many sports, where competition drives improvement and teamwork.

Translations

Translations of the word "challenged" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desafiado

🇮🇳 चुनौतीपूर्ण (chunautīpūrṇa)

🇩🇪 herausgefordert

🇮🇩 ditantang

🇺🇦 викликаний

🇵🇱 wyzwany

🇯🇵 挑戦された (chōsen sa reta)

🇫🇷 mis au défi

🇪🇸 desafiado

🇹🇷 meydan okundu

🇰🇷 도전받은 (dojeon-badeun)

🇸🇦 متحدي (mutaḥaddī)

🇨🇿 vyzván

🇸🇰 vyzvaný

🇨🇳 受到挑战 (shòudào tiǎozhàn)

🇸🇮 izzvan

🇮🇸 áskorun (áskorun)

🇰🇿 шақырылған (şaqyrılğan)

🇬🇪 გამოწვეული (gamotsveuli)

🇦🇿 çağırışa məruz qalmış (çağırışa məruz qalmış)

🇲🇽 desafiado

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,072 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.