the challenge is to

USAGE SUMMARY

"the challenge is to" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to introduce a specific task or goal that is difficult to achieve. For example: - The challenge is to complete the project within the given time frame. - The challenge is to find a solution that satisfies all parties involved. - The challenge is to overcome your fear and try something new. In these examples, "the challenge is to" highlights the difficulty or importance of the task at hand. It can be used in both formal and informal writing, and is often followed by a verb or verb phrase.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The challenge is to keep it so.

The Economist

The challenge is to manage them.

The New York Times

The challenge is to get it right.

The New York Times

The challenge is to avoid such pitfalls.

Stanford University

The challenge is to safeguard the resource.

The New York Times - Magazine

The challenge is to take that opportunity.

The Guardian - Opinion

"The challenge is to keep it going.

The Guardian - Sport

The challenge is to sneak it in".

The New York Times - Science

The challenge is to be accurate.

The Guardian - Sport

The challenge is to ensure it's sustained.

The Guardian - Opinion

The challenge is to do it now".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure the verb following "to" is in its base form. For example, "The challenge is to innovate" is correct, while "The challenge is to innovating" is incorrect.

Common error

Avoid using "the challenge is to" for tasks that are already known to be simple or straightforward. This can make your writing sound unnecessarily dramatic or verbose. Instead, reserve this phrase for situations that genuinely involve a high degree of difficulty or complexity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the challenge is to" functions as an introductory phrase that sets up a specific problem or task that requires effort to solve. As Ludwig AI confirms, it highlights the difficulty inherent in achieving a particular objective. The examples show it used in diverse contexts, from safeguarding resources to maintaining unity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Academia

22%

Science

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the challenge is to" is a versatile and frequently used phrase that serves to introduce a difficult task or goal. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage in various contexts. Predominantly found in News & Media and Academia, this phrase signals the need for effort and strategic thinking. To enhance clarity, consider related alternatives like "the objective is to" or "the goal is to", and avoid using it in simple contexts. Remember to always use the base form of the verb after "to" for grammatical correctness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the objective is to

Replaces "challenge" with "objective", shifting the focus slightly from difficulty to the desired outcome.

the goal is to

Substitutes "challenge" with "goal", emphasizing the target to be achieved.

the task is to

Replaces "challenge" with "task", highlighting the specific work required.

the aim is to

Uses "aim" instead of "challenge", focusing on the intended purpose or direction.

the difficulty lies in

Emphasizes the source of difficulty rather than framing it as a challenge.

the problem is to

Focuses on the problematic aspect, indicating that solving it is the priority.

the key is to

Highlights the essential element needed for success.

it is essential to

Shifts the structure to emphasize the necessity of the following action.

it is crucial to

Highlights that the importance of what follows.

we must strive to

Emphasizes the effort and determination required to achieve something.

FAQs

How can I use "the challenge is to" in a sentence?

Use "the challenge is to" to introduce a difficult task or goal that requires effort and strategic thinking. For example, "The challenge is to reduce carbon emissions by 50% within the next decade."

What phrases are similar to "the challenge is to"?

You can use alternatives like "the objective is to", "the goal is to", or "the task is to" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to use "the challenge is to"?

Yes, "the challenge is to" is grammatically correct. It's commonly followed by a verb in its base form to express a goal or task that presents a significant difficulty.

What's the difference between "the challenge is to" and "the goal is to"?

While both phrases express an aim, "the challenge is to" emphasizes the difficulty involved in achieving that aim, while "the goal is to" simply states the desired outcome.