How to pronounce challenge
Say it like CHAL-unj. Challenge has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (CHAL).
- CHAL
- unj
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Challenge pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- CHALSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "a" in cat.
- unjKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
American vs British pronunciation of challenge
American and British speakers say challenge in essentially the same way: /ˈtʃæləndʒ/ in the US and /ˈtʃælɪndʒ/ in the UK.
British respelling: CHAL-inj.
What does challenge mean?
- An antagonization or instigation intended to convince a person to perform an action they otherwise would not.
- A bid to overcome something.“a challenge to the king's authority”
- An attempt to take possession; a tackle.
- To invite (someone) to take part in a competition.“We challenged the boys next door to a game of football.”
- To dare (someone).
- To dispute (something); to contest.“to challenge the accuracy of a statement or of a quotation”
Where does challenge come from?
Cognate with Old English hōl (“calumny”).
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Questions about saying challenge
How do you pronounce challenge?
Say CHAL-unj. The American pronunciation is /ˈtʃæləndʒ/. In British English it is /ˈtʃælɪndʒ/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in challenge?
Challenge has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (CHAL). Broken into parts: CHAL · unj.
Do Americans and Brits say challenge the same way?
Almost exactly. The American form is /ˈtʃæləndʒ/ and the British form is /ˈtʃælɪndʒ/, so you can use either pronunciation with any listener.