Definition

In a manner that presents difficulties or obstacles, often requiring effort or skill to overcome.

Example

She approached the problem challengingly, pushing her team to think outside the box.

Conversation

I found that math problem quite challengingly difficult.

Really? I thought it was manageable.

Maybe I just need to practice more to get better at it.

That makes sense; practice can definitely help clear things up.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Challengingly → It is formed from "challenge" (from Old French *chalenge*, meaning to accuse or call to account) and "-ingly" (a suffix used to form adverbs indicating manner). The word "challengingly" means in a manner that presents a challenge or provokes a response.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'challenge' as presenting something that requires effort or skill, and the '-ingly' shows how it is done — so when something is done challengingly, it means it is done in a way that provokes a challenge.

Visually Confused Words