intense challenge

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "intense challenge" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe a difficult or demanding task or situation that requires a lot of effort and focus. Example: "Completing the final project for my master's degree was an intense challenge that pushed me to my limits."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

A new 'Hardcore' difficulty level is also available for players looking for a more intense challenge.

The Guardian - Tech

I've faced a similar, though less intense, challenge as Rudi-Ann, and I wish her the best.

The New York Times

"Somehow, I was returning to the way I'd always been but forgotten because I had this period of grief and intense challenge," she said.

The New York Times

Compared with the lazy, scenic paddle out, it was an intense challenge to navigate and pick out the right incoming swell.

The New York Times - Travel

Mr. McGreevey, who repulsed a brief but intense challenge by Senator Robert G. Torricelli for Democratic support in the governor's race last August, now has the support of virtually the entire Democratic Party infrastructure.

The New York Times

A few decades ago, facing that kind of intense challenge after middle age might have seemed unthinkable.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

Later called "cutting contests," these intense challenges between dancers were an excellent breeding ground for new talent.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Both pieces are likely to be physically intense, challenging the wide-ranging skills of CandoCo's seven performers.

The Guardian

But a candidate who likes intense challenges and can tolerate some ambiguity early on will probably jump right in.

Harvard Business Review

Yet, tucked away in hidden levels and areas, significant tasks await those who remember the intense challenges the series delivered in the 1980s and 90s.

The Guardian - Tech

Even during its earliest days in the 1930s, Lego faced intense challenges, according to David C. Robertson, the author of "Brick by Brick," a 2013 history of Lego.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "intense challenge", ensure the context clearly indicates what makes the challenge particularly demanding. Provide specific details to illustrate the intensity.

Common error

Avoid using "intense challenge" repeatedly in a single piece of writing. Vary your language by using synonyms like "formidable task" or "demanding endeavor" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "intense challenge" functions as a noun phrase where "intense" modifies the noun "challenge". It describes a situation or task characterized by a high degree of difficulty, requiring significant effort and focus. According to Ludwig, the phrase follows standard grammar rules.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Academia

23%

Science

19%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "intense challenge" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to describe a demanding situation. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, and the phrase appears frequently in news, academic, and scientific contexts. While effective, it's important to use it judiciously and consider synonyms like "formidable task" or "demanding endeavor" to avoid repetition. To maximize clarity, always provide specific details about what makes the challenge particularly "intense".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

significant hurdle

Replaces "challenge" with "hurdle", emphasizing the obstacle-like nature of the difficulty.

major obstacle

Focuses on the impeding nature of the difficulty.

formidable task

Substitutes "challenge" with "task" and "intense" with "formidable", highlighting the demanding nature of the work.

demanding endeavor

Uses "endeavor" instead of "challenge" and "demanding" for "intense", focusing on the effort required.

arduous undertaking

Replaces both words with synonyms, indicating a difficult and laborious project.

rigorous test

Highlights the strict and demanding criteria involved.

severe trial

Emphasizes the testing and difficult nature of the experience.

difficult situation

Offers a more general and less intense description of the circumstances.

tough assignment

Uses a more informal word like "tough", changing the register of the expression

strenuous effort

Shifts the focus from the challenge itself to the effort required to overcome it.

FAQs

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

To effectively use "intense challenge", clearly define what makes the challenge demanding and provide context. For example, "The project presented an "intense challenge" due to the tight deadline and limited resources."

What are some alternatives to "intense challenge"?

You can use alternatives like "formidable task", "demanding endeavor", or "significant hurdle" to convey a similar meaning while varying your language.

Is it redundant to say "very intense challenge"?

While not grammatically incorrect, "very intense challenge" can be seen as redundant. The word "intense" already implies a high degree of difficulty, so adding "very" doesn't significantly enhance the meaning. Consider using a stronger synonym for "challenge" instead.

When is it appropriate to use "intense challenge" in writing?

"Intense challenge" is appropriate when describing a situation or task that requires significant effort, focus, and resilience. It's suitable for both formal and informal contexts, depending on the specific situation and audience.