challenge a decision
/ˈtʃælɪndʒ ə dɪˈsɪʒən/
Meaning
To formally object to, dispute, or question a ruling, judgment, or choice made by an authority figure or organization. This expression is common in legal, corporate, academic, and everyday situations where someone disagrees with an official outcome.
Examples
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The athlete decided to challenge the decision of the referee.
The athlete decided to challenge the decision of the referee.
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You have the right to challenge a decision made by the insurance company.
You have the right to challenge a decision made by the insurance company.
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The union plans to challenge the decision to lay off workers.
The union plans to challenge the decision to lay off workers.
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It can be difficult to challenge a decision once it has been officially finalized.
It can be difficult to challenge a decision once it has been officially finalized.
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She hired a lawyer to help her challenge the court's decision.
She hired a lawyer to help her challenge the court's decision.
Common Mistakes
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✗ He wants to fight against the decision in the court.
✓ He wants to challenge the decision in court.
While 'fight against' is understood, 'challenge a decision' is the standard, professional collocation for disputing a formal ruling.
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✗ She decided to protest a decision of her boss.
✓ She decided to challenge her boss's decision.
'Protest' often implies public demonstration or verbal outcry, whereas 'challenge' implies a formal or structured attempt to change a ruling.
Related Expressions
Practice
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The residents gathered to discuss how to ___ to build the highway.
💡 Disagree with or dispute a ruling (3 words)
Show answer
challenge a decision
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Employees should have a clear channel to ___ made by HR.
💡 Formally dispute a choice (3 words)
Show answer
challenge a decision