challenged

word · lemma: challenge

/ˈtʃæɫəndʒd/
CHA-linjd
/tʃˈælɪndʒd/
CHA-linjd

Definition

Describes someone or something that has been given a challenge or faces difficulties. It is also used as a polite way to refer to people with disabilities, often in a humorous or sensitive context.

Usage & Nuances

'Challenged' is often used in formal or humorous contexts, especially in phrases like 'visually challenged' (blind) or 'time-challenged' (bad at managing time). It's usually more polite than using direct terms but can sound ironic if used inappropriately.

Example Sentences

He felt challenged by the difficult math problems.

basic

She is challenged in seeing distant objects clearly.

basic

The team felt challenged after losing the first game.

basic

I'm definitely directionally challenged—I always get lost downtown.

natural

These days, many people are technologically challenged.

natural

He jokingly calls himself height-challenged because he’s short.

natural