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

Advancements in security screenings have also brought challenges, including potential discrimination against certain passengers. — Kathleen Wong, USA Today, 3 Sep. 2026 These days, the existential challenges faced by newspapers across the country sound more like a Shakespearean tragedy than a comedy. — Julie Hinds, Freep.com, 3 Sep. 2026 This was followed distantly (15 percent) by challenges with market pricing strategy, or trouble passing along the cost of the tariffs to consumers. — Kate Nishimura, Footwear News, 3 Sep. 2026 To overcome these multi-axis motion challenges, the Tsubaki KabelSchlepp Robotrax System provides a specialized three-dimensional cable carrier engineered specifically for complex robotic motion. — IEEE Spectrum, 3 Sep. 2026 Irrespective of the challenges, the role of Unifrance is to bolster the international market for French shows, Elstner says. — Stewart Clarke, Deadline, 3 Sep. 2026 Its programming ranges from sketch comedy to games and challenges for their fans. — Cerys Davies, Los Angeles Times, 3 Sep. 2026 But new technologies and tactics, including AI, present new challenges for the United States. — Seth G. Jones, Foreign Affairs, 3 Sep. 2026 But now the island’s cigar industry is facing a perfect storm of existential challenges. — Chas Newkey-Burden, TheWeek, 28 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

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

The law includes several exceptions, including certain vehicles, medical devices and other equipment.

— Tiffani Jackson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 3 Sep. 2026
The rules generally require a residential site to have at least 200 feet of water frontage on Biscayne Bay, with specific exceptions for some existing lots.

— Luisa Yanez Updated September 3, Miami Herald, 3 Sep. 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 4 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of challenges

noun

verb

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