défi
/de.fi/
In French, the word for challenge is défi. Wiktionary also lists chalenge.
Meaning: difficult task (noun)
Ways to say it
| French | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| défi | /de.fi/ | |
| chalenge | masculine |
The term défi refers to a difficult task. A common way to say you are taking up or accepting a challenge is to use the phrase relever un défi.
Which one should you use?
While défi is the standard French word, the anglicism challenge is frequently used in modern French, especially within business or sports contexts.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
To express more than one challenge, use the plural form défis.
How do you pronounce it?
/de.fi/
Did you know?
- In a traditional duel, the act of issuing a défi often involved throwing a glove or a handkerchief at the opponent's feet.
- If you are talking about a 'challenge' in terms of a technical or scientific hurdle, French speakers might use the word enjeu, which literally means 'stake' in a game of chance.
- The noun défi is derived from the verb défier, which historically meant to mock or to defy someone's authority, not just to present a task.
Examples in context
- Je veux un défi.I want a challenge.This sentence shows how to express a desire for a challenge using défi.Tatoeba #4692227 by sacredceltic, translation #2011399 by CK
- Je relève le défi.Challenge accepted.This sentence is a way to say 'challenge accepted' using défi.Tatoeba #10708638 by AutoBot, translation #10708633 by AutoBot
- Je relève ton défi.I accept your challenge.This sentence shows how to say you accept someone else's challenge using défi.Tatoeba #1639004 by sacredceltic, translation #1638726 by Spamster
- La réalisation de ce projet est un défi stimulant.The completion of this project is an exciting challenge.
- Les difficultés rencontrées représentent des obstacles à surmonter.The difficulties encountered represent challenges to overcome.
- Les défis du quotidien rendent la vie intéressante.Everyday challenges make life interesting.
- Ce problème est un véritable casse-tête à résoudre.This problem is a real challenge to solve.
- Relever ce défi est un vrai pari!Taking on this challenge is a real gamble!
- 57 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Manon and Nathan are discussing a new project at work.
- ManonCe projet est un vrai défi pour nous.This project is a real challenge for us.
- NathanTu penses que c'est trop difficile ?Do you think it is too difficult?
- ManonNon, j'adore ce genre de défi.No, I love this kind of challenge.
- NathanMoi aussi, alors on commence demain.Me too, so we start tomorrow.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “challenge” translations and entries défi, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries défi, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
