Real English Thirty-eight: challenge

Many Japanese misuse the word "challenge."

Many people say, "I challenge!" when they should say "I want to try it. " or "I will try it."

Or they say "Challenge" instead of "Try it."

Below are some correct uses of the word "challenge":

-to challenge oneself

Me) I am going to run the Nishinomiya Half marathon next month?

My friend) Why?

Me) Because I want to challenge myself.

-to be a challenge

-to be challenging

Me) I finished.

My friend)  Good job! How was it?

Me) It was a challenge (=It was challenging), but it was a great day and I am glad I did it.