an extra challenge

USAGE SUMMARY

"an extra challenge" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It can be used as a noun phrase to refer to an additional or added difficulty or task. It can also be used as an adjective phrase to describe something that presents an added level of difficulty or challenge. Example 1: "Completing this project within a tight deadline was already challenging, but now we have an extra challenge with the client's requested changes." Example 2: "Climbing Mount Everest is an incredible accomplishment, but for those who attempt it without using supplemental oxygen, it becomes an even more extra challenge."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Yet the LCB faces an extra challenge.

The Economist

They also received an extra challenge for each tie-break.

The Guardian - Sport

The app also has advanced puzzles, which include numbers above 100, for an extra challenge.

The New York Times - Tech

But for those whose greatest asset is their business, this recession brings an extra challenge.

The New York Times

Defective parts had been mixed in with new ones thus presenting an extra challenge to the students.

The New Yorker

Argentina's proximity to the host nation adds an extra challenge for the security apparatus to deal with.

The Economist

And there is surely a reason for this: this role offers an extra challenge, an added embarrassment, to theodicy.

The Guardian - Books

Max's adventure would be enough to fill any book, but Schulman sets herself an extra challenge by designing "Three Weeks in December" as a double-track novel.

The New York Times - Books

According to some St Petersburg Muslim authorities, the long-lasting daylight in the city at this time of year is simply an extra challenge to their faith.

The Guardian

Each instalment was broadcast live, an extra challenge for the actors, the many battlefields created in the studio at Wood Lane.

The Guardian

For an extra challenge, users can place targets on the floor and try to make the Code-a-pillar reach them.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an extra challenge" to introduce an additional element of difficulty, especially when the context already presents a challenge.

Common error

While "an extra challenge" is appropriate in many situations, avoid using it excessively. Consider alternative phrases like "added difficulty" or "further complication" to vary your language.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an extra challenge" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or following a preposition. As indicated by Ludwig, it introduces an additional layer of difficulty or complexity to a situation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

27%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an extra challenge" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to indicate an additional difficulty or obstacle. Ludwig's analysis confirms its common usage across various contexts, including news, science, and more informal settings. While perfectly acceptable, varying your language with alternatives like "added difficulty" or "further complication" can enhance your writing. Keep in mind that it is used in both professional and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an added difficulty

Focuses on the difficulty aspect, emphasizing that something is making things harder.

an additional hurdle

Highlights the obstacle-like nature of the challenge, implying something to overcome.

a further complication

Emphasizes the aspect of introducing complexity to an already existing situation.

an increased obstacle

Focuses on the obstacle aspect and the fact that is an increased one.

a greater impediment

Highlights the hindering aspect, suggesting a significant obstruction.

a supplementary test

Suggests an additional trial or assessment, implying a need to prove oneself further.

an unexpected trial

Emphasizes the unforeseen nature of the challenge, highlighting its surprise element.

a unique obstacle

Highlights the singular or distinct nature of the challenge.

a demanding situation

Focuses on the high level of effort and resources required to deal with the circumstances.

a strenuous task

Highlights the taxing and laborious nature of the task, emphasizing physical or mental effort.

FAQs

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

You can use "an extra challenge" to describe an additional difficulty layered on top of an existing one. For example, "The project was already complex, and the sudden change in requirements presented "an extra challenge"."

What are some alternatives to saying "an extra challenge"?

Alternatives include "an added difficulty", "an additional hurdle", or "a further complication". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it ever incorrect to use the phrase "an extra challenge"?

The phrase itself is grammatically sound, but make sure it accurately reflects the situation. Avoid using it if the situation doesn't genuinely represent an increased difficulty or obstacle; otherwise, it might sound exaggerated or insincere.

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

"An extra challenge" implies an additional difficulty on top of existing ones, whereas "a major challenge" refers to a significant difficulty that might be the primary or only issue. A major challenge can be lessened with a minor inconvenience, creating a new challenge.