CHALLENGES Synonyms: 170 Similar and Opposite Words

challenges 1 of 2

noun

plural of challenge

as in objections

a feeling or declaration of disapproval or dissent there were no serious challenges to the legislative bill, so it passed easily

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as in problems

something that requires thought and skill for resolution the many challenges facing developing countries in the 21st century

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challenges

2 of 2

verb

present tense third-person singular of challenge

as in questions

to demand proof of the truth or rightness of don't hesitate to challenge any statement that generalizes about people

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as in dares

to invite (someone) to take part in a contest or to perform a feat I challenge you to swim to the other side of the pond

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as in requires

to have as a requirement having to put up with an overbearing boss challenges forbearance

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of challenges

Noun

Additionally, analysts note that one of Burnham's immediate major challenges will be fiscal hurdles. — CNBC, 28 Aug. 2026 But now the island’s cigar industry is facing a perfect storm of existential challenges. — Chas Newkey-Burden, TheWeek, 28 Aug. 2026 Of course, challenges immediately present themselves, the silliest of which belongs to Samir and Paul Baker. — Ben Rosenstock, Vulture, 28 Aug. 2026 Judith Kreeger overcame gender barriers, work challenges and a surprise career. — Howard Cohen, Miami Herald, 27 Aug. 2026 Since last fall, Parton had missed or postponed a number of public appearances citing health challenges. — Patrick Ryan, USA Today, 27 Aug. 2026 That navigator works to understand their needs and challenges, and then provides tailored recommendations. — Hillary Lum, The Conversation, 27 Aug. 2026 But identifying remains that had been soaking in water for decades presents a long list of challenges. — Elizabeth Wolfe, CNN Money, 21 Aug. 2026 Cornerback Marlon Humphrey, himself a two-time All-Pro, presented Jefferson plenty of challenges in their one-on-one matchups. — CBS News, 21 Aug. 2026

Verb

Another challenges applicants to create a social media post about a food or flavor combination they're currently obsessed with. — Taylor Ardrey, USA Today, 28 Aug. 2026 This challenges the assumption that such behavior belongs to anyone’s true identity. — The Christian Science Monitor, Christian Science Monitor, 24 Aug. 2026 The lawsuit challenges new NCAA eligibility rules that give athletes a five-year window to compete in college sports. — Steve Henson, Los Angeles Times, 24 Aug. 2026 The study, analyzing data from 2021-2024, challenges the perception of cannabis as a safe substance. — Omer Awan, Forbes.com, 21 Aug. 2026 Other examples could include someone who challenges projections from the models that modern organizations are often tethered to. — Will Sammon, New York Times, 20 Aug. 2026 Staffing challenges Even when there’s money, there may not be staff. — Rebecca Noel, Charlotte Observer, 19 Aug. 2026 Staffing challenges The FDA had 432 inspectors in 2024, and its hiring rate has not outpaced losses, according to the GAO report. — Julia Ingram, CBS News, 11 Aug. 2026 Once again, Southlake Carroll challenges a state title contender, continuing one of Texas’ hardest schedules. — Charles Baggarly, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 10 Aug. 2026

Recent Examples of Synonyms for challenges

Noun

Bessent's remarks came as Siluanov's first in-person appearance at the summit since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022 drew objections from other European leaders.

— Anniek Bao, CNBC, 1 Sep. 2026
Recently, Capifali helped guide the Johnson administration through a tiff with aldermen who legalized video gambling terminals over the mayor’s objections.

— Alice Yin, Chicago Tribune, 31 Aug. 2026

Definition of objections

Verb

Still, most Republicans are not flocking to Ossoff, as Collins tries to tie him to the far-left of the party and questions his experience.

— Sam Gringlas, NPR, 27 Aug. 2026
Mayor Karen Bass questions the progress and said that city personnel were inside the warehouse earlier today and that food waste remains.

— Julie Sharp, CBS News, 21 Aug. 2026

Definition of questions

Verb

Even an ordinary staircase practically dares you to stare at it long enough to convince yourself something moved.

— Dave Quinn, PEOPLE, 26 Aug. 2026
There is real hope of a postseason push, with the disgusting state of the American League leaving the door open for any team that dares to play well.

— Mitch Bannon, New York Times, 26 Aug. 2026

Definition of dares

Verb

Not every productive moment needs an audience, a grand entrance, or your name in lights.

— Tarot.com, New York Daily News, 1 Sep. 2026
For example, experts might put a lot of effort into listening to community needs to demonstrate integrity and openness, but miss opportunities to communicate the underlying benevolent motivations driving their work.

— John C. Besley, The Conversation, 31 Aug. 2026

Definition of needs

Noun

With rare exceptions, EV sound is little more than an affectation.

— Byron Hurd, The Drive, 27 Aug. 2026
Washington had carved out exceptions for itself and some European countries to buy Russian oil, and the Biden administration had even encouraged India to buy Russian oil under a price cap as part of a plan to stabilize the global oil market.

— C. Raja Mohan, Foreign Affairs, 27 Aug. 2026

Definition of exceptions

Noun

On Thursday, Pittman stated that personnel matters of public agencies, such as local school districts, do not rise to the level of federal judicial review.

— Lina Ruiz, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 29 Aug. 2026
How to use a bidet correctly Technique matters because every part of the process involves delicate tissue and bacteria.

— Hanna Wickes, Sacbee.com, 29 Aug. 2026

Definition of matters

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“Challenges.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/challenges. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of challenges

noun

verb

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