I am tempted

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I am tempted" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing a desire or inclination to do something, often something that may not be advisable. Example: "I am tempted to try the new dessert, even though I'm on a diet."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"But I am tempted.

The New Yorker

I know I am tempted".

The Guardian

I am tempted to ask".

The Guardian

"I am tempted," he said.

The Guardian - Sport

I am tempted, though, by sloe gin.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

So I am tempted to use it.

The New York Times - Books

I am tempted to say: "Yes".

The Guardian

I am tempted to call it artful.

The Guardian - Arts

"Cui bono?" I am tempted to ask.

The Guardian

"I am tempted to try and do that".

The Guardian

So I am tempted by the new unconditional offers.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I am tempted" to express a genuine inclination towards something, but be mindful of the implications or consequences of that temptation. Consider adding a qualifying phrase to indicate the degree of temptation or the likelihood of acting on it.

Common error

Avoid repeatedly stating "I am tempted" without indicating whether you will resist or succumb to the temptation. Balance the expression of desire with a clear indication of your intention.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I am tempted" functions as a declarative statement expressing a feeling of inclination or desire towards something. According to Ludwig AI, this feeling often involves a conflict or awareness of potential negative consequences. It sets the stage for a decision or action.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I am tempted" is a common and versatile phrase used to express inclination or desire, often with an underlying sense of conflict or awareness of potential consequences. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. When using this phrase, it's important to consider the implications of the temptation and clearly communicate your intention, whether it's to resist or succumb. Alternatives such as "I feel inclined" or "I'm drawn to" can offer subtle variations in meaning. Overall, "I am tempted" is a useful phrase for expressing internal conflict and wavering decisions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I feel inclined

Indicates a leaning or predisposition toward something; a more subdued form of temptation.

I'm drawn to

Emphasizes the attractive or alluring quality of the object of temptation.

I'm considering

Focuses on the thought process of evaluating an option, rather than the feeling of temptation itself.

I'm half-minded to

Suggests a wavering decision, where the speaker is partly decided but still hesitant.

I'm on the verge of

Implies being very close to succumbing to temptation or taking a particular action.

I have a yearning for

Highlights a deep desire or longing, which can underlie temptation.

I'm predisposed to

Suggests a natural inclination or tendency towards something.

I'm inclined to believe

Signifies a leaning towards accepting a belief or idea, which is a specific type of temptation involving intellectual assent.

I'm giving it serious thought

Focuses on the deliberative aspect of temptation, indicating careful consideration of a potential action.

I'm starting to think

Indicates an emerging consideration or attraction to an idea or action.

FAQs

How can I use "I am tempted" in a sentence?

You can use "I am tempted" to express a feeling of wanting to do something, often something that might be considered unwise or against your better judgment. For instance, "I am tempted to skip the gym today" or "I am tempted to buy that expensive gadget".

What are some alternatives to "I am tempted"?

You can use alternatives like "I feel inclined", "I'm drawn to", or "I'm considering" depending on the context and the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it always negative to say "I am tempted"?

Not necessarily. While "I am tempted" often implies a potential conflict between desire and duty or wisdom, it can also simply express a strong interest or attraction to something that isn't inherently negative. For example, "I am tempted to try that new restaurant".

What's the difference between "I am tempted" and "I want to"?

"I want to" expresses a straightforward desire, while "I am tempted" suggests a more complex situation where there might be reasons not to act on that desire. "I am tempted" implies an awareness of potential consequences or a moral dilemma that "I want to" might not.