challenge

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challenge (one) on (something)

To question one, perhaps aggressively, on a particular issue, statement, or viewpoint. I had to challenge him on that remark about sales because the budget report did not support it at all. That is a positively absurd statement, and I'm glad someone challenged her on it. Challenging someone on their political beliefs the first time you meet them is usually not the best idea.

challenge (someone) to (something)

To dare or provoke one to participate in something, such as a competition. I ushered Bob out the door as soon as that obnoxious guy challenged him to a fight. Jenna is really good at basketball, so don't challenge her to a game unless you're OK with losing!

challenge the status quo

To behave or do something in a way contrary to that which is generally accepted or expected. I love this filmmaker, his movies really challenge the status quo! It can be risky, but challenging the status quo can be a great way to get ahead in business.

pose a challenge

To stand as an obstacle or problem. Well, having a room on the third floor does pose a challenge if you're gonna try to sneak out the window. Your parents will be asleep by then—why not just use the back door? The lack of funding definitely poses a challenge, but we'll just have to keep working on this research as best we can with the money we have.

rise to the challenge

To discover or utilize the strength, determination, or skill necessary to accomplish some difficult task successfully. I know that you're nervous about taking on such a senior role in the company, but I'm totally confident that you'll rise to the challenge. The odds were against them, but the home team rose to the challenge and managed to win the championship.

take up the challenge

To accept or attempt some particular test, fight, contest, etc., or answer an invitation or call to such. I knew it was going to be really hard doing a master's degree while working full time, but I was ready to take up the challenge. We need someone to manage our entire Pacific Northwest operation. What do you think—are you willing to take up the challenge?

up to (something)

1. Meeting a certain standard or requirement. Your work just hasn't been up to the standard I expect from students in my AP class.

2. Able or willing to do or deal with something. I'm not really up to going to the mall—I think I need a nap instead. I doubt she's up to a visit so soon after her surgery. I'm warning you, this is an intense industry. Are you up to the challenge?

3. Scheming something or engaging in mischievous behavior. I think those two are up to something—they've been acting squirrelly all morning.

4. Having reached a particular point or level. I'm only up to the second chapter, but I like the book so far. The water is up to the basement steps now, so we need to do something!

5. A maximum of (something). You have up to a month to complete these assignments. If you submit them after that, they'll be marked late. It will likely take up to a week for the repairs to be completed.

6. Doing something; occupied or engaged with something. What have you been up to since school ended? Are you up to anything tonight? Do you want to catch a movie?

challenge someone on something

to dispute someone's statement, remarks, or position. I think Fred is wrong, but I won't challenge him on his estimate.

challenge someone to something

to dare someone to do something; to invite someone to compete at something. I challenge you to a round of golf. Jerry challenged us to a debate of the issues.

rise to the challenge

Fig. to accept a challenge. (Usually in reference to success with the challenge.) You can depend on Kelly to rise to the challenge. We were not able to rise to the challenge and we lost the contract.

take up the challenge

to respond to a challenge and do what the challenge asks. I am not prepared to take the challenge up. Dave took up the challenge without much urging.

rise to the ocˈcasion/ˈchallenge

do something successfully in a difficult situation, emergency, etc: When the lead singer became ill, Cathy had to take her place. Everyone thought she rose to the occasion magnificently. ♢ This company must be prepared to rise to the challenge of a rapidly changing market.