first challenge; first try; first attempt
Used when someone tries a difficult activity, task, competition, or role for the first time; often appears as 〜への初挑戦 or 初挑戦だった.
For him, an overseas marathon was a first challenge.
This work is the director's first attempt at a period drama.
This marathon was a big step for him in his first attempt at the sport.
This year she is trying her hand at a cooking contest for the first time.
He won the championship on his very first attempt.
He finally accomplished his long-held dream of a first attempt at climbing Mt. Fuji.
初体験 refers broadly to any first experience, whereas 初挑戦 implies actively taking on a difficult task or competition for the first time.
初出場 means a first appearance or participation in a specific competition or event, while 初挑戦 can describe any first attempt, not just competitive appearances.
A transparent Sino-Japanese compound: 初 means 'first' and 挑戦 means 'challenge' or 'attempt.'