be a daunting challenge

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be a daunting challenge" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a task or situation that is intimidating or difficult to overcome. Example: "Starting a new business can be a daunting challenge, but with the right planning and support, it can also be rewarding."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

As your article demonstrates, finding appropriate psychiatric care for young children can be a daunting challenge.

The New York Times

Establishing criminality in car crashes, if any exists, can be a daunting challenge for investigators.

The New York Times

Bringing an end to this illicit activity is proving to be a daunting challenge.

Yale University

Taking over at Hewlett-Packard was going to be a daunting challenge.

The New York Times

Analysts agree that it will be a daunting challenge, but that success could be very lucrative.

The New York Times

Building a fulfilling life and career can be a daunting challenge.

Harvard Business Review

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

"It's a daunting challenge".

The New York Times

That's a  daunting challenge, even for China".

The New York Times

It is a daunting challenge, but consider the alternative".

The New York Times

It's a daunting challenge, but also a great opportunity.

Harvard University

That's a daunting challenge, but she could do it.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be a daunting challenge" when you want to emphasize that something is not only difficult but also potentially intimidating or overwhelming. It's especially effective when describing tasks that require courage and resilience.

Common error

Avoid using "be a daunting challenge" for tasks that are merely inconvenient or slightly difficult. This phrase implies a significant obstacle that tests one's abilities and resolve, so reserve it for truly demanding situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be a daunting challenge" functions as a predicative expression, where "daunting" modifies "challenge", emphasizing the difficulty and potential intimidation associated with the task. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in various contexts, reinforcing its role in conveying a sense of unease or apprehension.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

25%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be a daunting challenge" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a task or situation that is not only difficult but also potentially intimidating. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is widely used across various reputable sources, particularly in news media, scientific publications, and academic writing. When using the expression "be a daunting challenge", consider the emotional impact and the level of difficulty implied, ensuring it accurately reflects the situation. While alternatives such as "prove to be extremely difficult" or "present a significant obstacle" exist, the phrase effectively communicates a sense of apprehension and the need for resilience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

prove to be extremely difficult

Highlights the difficulty level directly, avoiding figurative language.

be a Herculean task

Replaces "challenge" with a synonym and directly references Hercules.

present a significant obstacle

Focuses on the obstructive nature rather than the intimidating aspect.

constitute a major hurdle

Emphasizes overcoming a barrier, less about the feeling it evokes.

necessitate a herculean effort

Implies a grand scale of difficulty referencing Hercules and his labors.

represent a tough assignment

Uses a more direct term for task, softening the emotional impact.

require considerable effort

Focuses on the energy needed, downplaying potential intimidation.

demand exceptional skill

Shifts focus to the necessary abilities rather than inherent difficulty.

embody a steep learning curve

Specifically addresses the challenge of acquiring new knowledge or skills.

pose a considerable threat

Conveys difficulty through a sense of potential danger or negative consequences.

FAQs

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

You can use "be a daunting challenge" to describe a task or situation that is difficult and intimidating. For example: "Navigating the legal system can "be a daunting challenge" for immigrants."

What are some alternatives to "be a daunting challenge"?

Alternatives include "prove to be extremely difficult", "present a significant obstacle", or "constitute a major hurdle", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "be a daunting challenge"?

Use "be a daunting challenge" when you want to express that something is not just difficult but also potentially overwhelming or intimidating. It implies that the task requires significant effort, skill, and resilience to overcome.

Is there a difference between "be a daunting challenge" and "be a difficult challenge"?

While both phrases describe something difficult, ""be a daunting challenge"" suggests a stronger sense of intimidation or apprehension than "be a difficult challenge". "Daunting" implies something that could discourage or deter someone.