intellectual challenge

USAGE SUMMARY

"intellectual challenge" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a task or activity that requires mental effort. For example: "The new puzzle provided an interesting intellectual challenge for me to solve."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He loves intellectual challenge.

The New York Times

The intellectual challenge appealed.

Independent

An intellectual challenge.

The New York Times

We have to accept the intellectual challenge".

The New York Times

Smith's intellectual challenge was again French.

The Economist

I need an intellectual challenge.

The Guardian - Tech

But "the projects provide an intellectual challenge".

The New York Times

"At first, it's an intellectual challenge.

The New York Times - Magazine

But it's a good intellectual challenge".

The Guardian

What part does intellectual challenge play in artistic value?

The New Yorker

He said, "It was really an intellectual challenge to do.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "intellectual challenge" when you want to emphasize the stimulating and demanding nature of a task that requires significant mental effort.

Common error

Avoid using "intellectual challenge" to describe simple tasks or problems that don't genuinely require significant mental effort. Overusing it can diminish its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "intellectual challenge" is that of a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or the complement of a preposition. As evidenced by Ludwig's examples, it frequently denotes a demanding task or situation that requires significant mental effort.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "intellectual challenge" is a grammatically sound and widely used noun phrase that signifies a demanding task requiring significant mental effort. According to Ludwig, it is most frequently found in news, media, and scientific contexts, indicating a professional or neutral register. When using the phrase, be mindful of its inherent weight and avoid applying it to trivial situations. Alternatives such as "cognitive puzzle" or "mental stimulation" can provide nuanced alternatives depending on the desired emphasis. This analysis, combined with the numerous examples provided by Ludwig, reinforces its widespread acceptance and versatility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cognitive puzzle

Focuses on the mental or cognitive aspect of the challenge, highlighting the problem-solving nature.

mental stimulation

Emphasizes the stimulating effect on the mind, rather than the difficulty.

thought-provoking task

Highlights the capacity of the task to stimulate thinking and reflection.

brain teaser

Refers to a specific type of puzzle designed to challenge the intellect.

complex problem

Focuses on the complexity and difficulty inherent in the problem.

stimulating exercise

Presents the challenge as a form of mental exercise.

mental hurdle

Emphasizes the obstacle aspect of the challenge.

cognitive test

Implies a formal assessment of mental abilities.

scholarly pursuit

Suggests a more academic and in-depth intellectual endeavor.

analytical endeavor

Highlights the analytical skills required to overcome the challenge.

FAQs

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

You can use "intellectual challenge" to describe a task, problem, or activity that requires significant mental effort. For example, "Solving this complex equation presents a significant intellectual challenge".

What are some synonyms for "intellectual challenge"?

Alternatives include "cognitive puzzle", "mental stimulation", or "thought-provoking task", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "intellectual challenge" formal or informal?

"Intellectual challenge" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its appropriateness depends more on the surrounding vocabulary and the overall tone of the writing.

What's the difference between "intellectual challenge" and "academic challenge"?

While both terms relate to demanding tasks, "intellectual challenge" is broader and applies to any task requiring significant mental effort. "Academic challenge" specifically refers to difficulties encountered within an educational setting.