Crossword Genius

Many are to issue a challenge (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

dare

'issue a challenge' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

'many are' is the wordplay.
'many' becomes 'd' ().
'd'+'are'='DARE'

'to' acts as a link.

(Other definitions for dare that I've seen before include "Challenge, defy, face" , "Take the risk, face the danger" , "Challenge of courage" , "Risk; challenge" , "Be courageous enough to try or do" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish News.
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