The adjective “challenging” is used to describe something that is difficult when it comes to test someone’s ability or determination.
Another word for “challenging” is complicated or demanding. However, more synonyms will be listed in this article.
“Challenging” – General synonyms
The following illustrates other words for “challenging” that may be used in everyday conversation as well as in academic writing.
- Complex
- Complicated
- Demanding
- Difficult
- Hard
- Rigorous
- Tough
- Tricky
“Challenging” synonyms in the sense of dare
Synonyms of the word “challenging” in the sense of dare are:
- Daring
- Provocative
“Challenging” synonyms in the sense of test
Synonyms of the word “challenging” in the sense of test are:
- Burdensome
- Confronting
- Crucial
- Defiance
- Demanding
- Face-off
- Hard
- Hindering
- Obstructive
- Opposition
- Problematic
- Testing
- Trial
- Ultimatum
in Your Thesis
“Challenging” – Synonyms used in academic writing
In an academic context, the word “challenging” is used to describe a situation or task that are demanding or difficult. All in all, the term “challenging” in an academic context implies a high degree of difficulty or complexity that is necessary for students to work hard and think thoughtfully in order to be successful.
However, more synonyms for “challenging” used in academic writing will be shown below.
Are you looking for suitable synonyms for “challenging” for your academic paper? Have a look at the table below with the top suggestions from our BachelorPrint-Team.
| “Challenging” Synonyms | Examples |
| Difficult | ...advanced physics was challenging… |
| …advanced physics was difficult… | |
| Complicated | The professor assigned a challenging essay prompt, asking… |
| The professor assigned a complicated essay prompt, asking… | |
| Demanding | Writing a book can be a challenging task. |
| Writing a book can be a demanding task. | |
| Provocative | The challenging task required students to… |
| The provocative task required students to… |
