a challenge

USAGE SUMMARY

"a challenge" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to something that is hard to do. For example, "Learning how to speak Japanese has been a challenge."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Yeah, it's a challenge.

The New York Times - Sports

Yes, that's a challenge.

The New York Times

Showering is a challenge.

The New York Times

But it's a challenge.

The New York Times

"It's like a challenge".

The New York Times

"Stamina is a challenge.

The Guardian

It's technically a challenge".

The New York Times

It remains a challenge.

The New York Times

Well, there's a challenge.

Independent

"It's quite a challenge.

The New York Times - Sports

It was a challenge".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a challenge" to frame difficult situations as opportunities for growth and development.

Common error

Avoid using "a challenge" repeatedly in close proximity. Vary your language by using synonyms like "obstacle", "difficulty", or "hurdle" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a challenge" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically serves as a subject complement or object in a sentence, denoting something that requires effort and skill to overcome. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples from diverse sources.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Formal & Business

16%

Science

9%

Less common in

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a challenge" is a common and versatile expression used to describe a difficult or demanding situation. Grammatically sound and widely accepted, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, it functions as a noun phrase. Predominantly found in News & Media, its purpose is to acknowledge difficulty or inspire effort. While the phrase is helpful, it is important to keep in mind to avoid overuse. Considering alternatives like "a difficult task", "a tough situation", or "an uphill battle" can improve your writing and create more engaging experiences for the reader.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a demanding task

Replaces "challenge" with a more direct synonym focusing on the effort required.

a difficult undertaking

Highlights the complexity and effort involved in the task.

a tough situation

Shifts the focus to the problematic or adverse nature of the circumstance.

an uphill battle

Emphasizes the struggle and resistance encountered.

a formidable obstacle

Presents the challenge as a significant barrier to overcome.

a taxing endeavor

Stresses the demanding and potentially exhausting nature of the task.

a complex issue

Focuses on the intricate and multifaceted nature of the problem.

a test of skill

Highlights the need for specific abilities to succeed.

a stimulating opportunity

Presents the challenge as something that can be exciting and help developing skills.

a demanding situation

Highlights how much effort is needed to deal with the situation.

FAQs

How can I use "a challenge" in a sentence?

You can use "a challenge" to describe a difficult task or situation, as in "Learning a new language is "a challenge"".

What are some alternatives to saying "a challenge"?

Alternatives include "a difficult task", "a tough situation", or "an uphill battle", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "a challenge" or "an challenge"?

The correct phrase is "a challenge". The article "a" is used before consonant sounds.

What's the difference between "a challenge" and "an opportunity"?

"A challenge" refers to a difficult or demanding task, while "an opportunity" suggests a favorable circumstance or chance for advancement. Though a challenge can present an opportunity.