挑む

• Reading: いどむ
• Romaji: idomu
• Kanji breakdown: 挑 (chō/ido) — challenge, contend, provoke
• Pronunciation: /i.do.mɯ/

Meaning

To challenge; to contend for; to throw down the gauntlet. Actively taking on a difficult opponent or task.

A Group 1 (godan) transitive verb expressing bold confrontation with a challenge, opponent, or difficult task. Takes the particle に to mark what is being challenged. Carries a heroic or determined nuance, often used in sports, competitions, and personal growth narratives.

Examples

1. 彼は世界記録に挑む決意を固めた。 He resolved to go after the world record.
2. 強豪チームに挑んだが惜しくも敗れた。 They challenged the powerhouse team but narrowly lost.
3. 困難な課題に挑み続ける姿勢が大切だ。 It's important to keep taking on difficult challenges.

Usage Guide

Context: sports, competition, personal growth

Tone: determined

Origin & History

The kanji 挑 combines 扌 (hand) and 兆 (sign, omen), suggesting reaching out toward a sign of challenge. Originally meant to provoke or incite, then broadened to include any act of bravely facing a challenge.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal