fordernd

Fordernd is a German adjective and the present participle of the verb fordern, meaning to demand or require. It describes situations, tasks, standards, or people that place high demands or require substantial effort, skill, or endurance. The connotation is neutral to evaluative and depends on context.

The term derives from fordern and functions as an attributive adjective as well as a predicative one. It follows normal German declension: eine fordernde Aufgabe, ein fordernder Lehrer, ein forderndes Umfeld. It can also be used to describe behavior or attitude, as in Die Prüfung ist fordernd.

Usage and nuance: Fordernd often signals that something requires significant time, effort, or expertise. It can imply high standards or sternness, without necessarily carrying a negative judgment. Examples include eine fordernde Prüfung (a demanding exam) or eine fordernde Chefin (a demanding boss). In contrast to more neutral terms, it can emphasize difficulty or pressure. Closely related synonyms are anspruchsvoll and herausfordernd, while streng can intensify a strict or punitive aspect.

See also: The English equivalent is demanding or requiring, depending on context. Related German terms include anspruchsvoll, herausfordernd, and streng.