even challenging

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "even challenging" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize that something is not only difficult but also presents a significant challenge, often in a positive or encouraging context. Example: "The project was demanding, even challenging, but we managed to complete it on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

Some southern constituencies are even challenging the usual deal of disarmament and integration, says Mr Lecocq.

The Economist

Our readers are smart and expect writing that's sophisticated, even challenging.

The New York Times

Today, with gigabyte memory chips inside them, they are even challenging optical drives.

The Economist

But this time, China is even challenging Japan's claim to control the islands.

The Economist

Parliament is even challenging the authority of the mighty presidency.In this section Power grab River elegy What's Strine for "Asian century"?

The Economist

Now, the senator said, "when you can't point to any positive results, it makes advocates and quiet observers weary of even challenging the process".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

You might even challenge another class to a shake-off.

The New York Times

Players can even challenge one another to duels.

The New York Times - Tech

His team even challenged for the play-offs at one stage.

Independent

He even challenged Creighton's Doug McDermott for conference player of the year.

The New York Times - Sports

One even challenged the algorithms central to the forest benefit calculations.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "even challenging" to emphasize that something is not only difficult but also presents a significant test of one's abilities or resources. It is suitable when you want to convey that the difficulty is noteworthy or surprising.

Common error

Avoid using "even challenging" when describing tasks that are only mildly difficult. This phrase is most effective when the situation genuinely presents a considerable hurdle.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "even challenging" functions as an intensifier followed by an adjective, modifying a noun or pronoun by emphasizing the extent of the challenge presented. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and applicability in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science

32%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "even challenging" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression, effectively conveying a significant degree of difficulty or demanding engagement. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its use is appropriate across a variety of contexts, with a notable presence in News & Media and Scientific publications. When incorporating this phrase into your writing, remember that it’s most impactful when highlighting unexpected or noteworthy difficulties, and less effective in simple contexts. For nuanced expression, consider alternatives such as "particularly demanding" or "remarkably difficult".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

remarkably difficult

Stresses the notable level of hardship involved.

particularly demanding

Focuses on the high level of difficulty, emphasizing the effort required.

exceptionally stimulating

Highlights the intellectual or emotional engagement provided by the challenge.

surprisingly testing

Highlights the unexpected nature of the challenge.

notably rigorous

Highlights the strictness and precision required.

unusually provocative

Emphasizes the capacity to evoke thought or strong reaction.

extraordinarily taxing

Emphasizes the depleting effect on resources or energy.

incredibly arduous

Focuses on the sustained effort and hardship involved.

distinctly daunting

Focuses on the intimidating or overwhelming aspect of the challenge.

singularly perplexing

Emphasizes the unique and puzzling nature of the challenge.

FAQs

How can I use "even challenging" in a sentence?

Use "even challenging" to describe something that is surprisingly or notably difficult. For example, "The advanced physics course was demanding, "even challenging", pushing students to their limits".

What are some alternatives to "even challenging"?

You can use alternatives like "particularly demanding", "remarkably difficult", or "surprisingly testing" depending on the specific context.

Is "even challenging" too formal for casual conversation?

While "even challenging" isn't overly formal, it's more common in professional or academic contexts. In casual conversation, simpler terms like "really hard" or "super tough" might be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "even challenging" and "very difficult"?

"Very difficult" describes a high degree of difficulty. "Even challenging" implies that something is not only difficult but also tests one's abilities or resources in a significant or surprising way, adding an extra layer of complexity or unexpectedness.