a constant temptation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a constant temptation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an ongoing or persistent urge to do something, often something that is considered undesirable or morally questionable. Example: "Despite his best efforts to resist, the allure of sweets remained a constant temptation for him."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

He said, "It's a constant temptation.

The New Yorker

The fancy clothing and footwear that she procures for Kyra present a constant temptation.

The New Yorker

Whoever wins this afternoon, succumbing to all this will be a constant temptation.

The Guardian

Yes, I have considered suicide, and it remains a constant temptation.

The New Yorker

But the hope of a Blanton-type trade, and the perfect results that follow, is a constant temptation.

The New York Times

When the house was quiet for a moment, the presence of beds and sofas offered a constant temptation to nap.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

I would presume that, for most parents, lassoing your offspring into a musical group is a more or less constant temptation.

The New Yorker

There is constant temptation to let an interesting character become too important for the proper story value of the moment, to over-emphasize a part in its relation to the whole.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This makes for an efficient economy, but there is constant temptation to cheat or take shortcuts.

Forbes

Yet, in another way, the ready availability of all this material was a constant, distracting temptation, and I was at times less attentive to Gordon's skillful and passionate writing about the songs than I might have been.

The New Yorker

Their finest five minutes of this seamy era, however, came with Footsteps in the Dark, Kelly and Rudy arranging gossamer harmonies over a midnight funk, as Ron crooned an uneasy lyric on maintaining "a love that lasted for so long" amid the constant temptation of infidelity, the "footsteps in the dark".

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a constant temptation" to describe a recurring and difficult-to-resist urge, particularly when the temptation is viewed as undesirable or morally questionable. Make sure to consider the intensity of the temptation. For a more powerful draw, 'an irresistible temptation' could be a great fit.

Common error

Avoid using "a constant temptation" when describing minor or easily dismissed urges. The phrase implies a significant and persistent struggle, so choose more suitable wording when the temptation is trivial.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a constant temptation" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It describes something that persistently attracts or allures, often in a way that is difficult to resist. Ludwig AI shows it's a valid, frequently used expression.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Encyclopedias

15%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a constant temptation" is a noun phrase used to describe something that offers persistent allure or enticement. As validated by Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and commonly used across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While maintaining a neutral register, it effectively conveys the idea of a recurring and often difficult-to-resist urge. When using this phrase, be mindful of the intensity you wish to convey, and consider alternatives such as "an ever-present lure" or "a perpetual enticement" for subtle variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an ever-present lure

Replaces "constant temptation" with synonyms emphasizing continuous attraction.

a perpetual enticement

Substitutes "temptation" with "enticement" and "constant" with "perpetual", highlighting ceaseless allure.

an unending attraction

Focuses on the attractive aspect of the temptation, suggesting a limitless draw.

a persistent urge

Shifts from external temptation to internal impulse, indicating a strong desire.

an ongoing desire

Emphasizes the continuous nature of the want or craving.

a chronic weakness

Highlights a recurring susceptibility to something.

an irresistible impulse

Focuses on the strength and difficulty of resisting the urge.

a never-ending battle

Conveys the struggle against temptation as a continuous fight.

a standing invitation

Suggests a permanent and readily available opportunity or allure.

a magnetic pull

Uses a metaphor to describe the compelling and unavoidable nature of the temptation.

FAQs

How can I use "a constant temptation" in a sentence?

You can use "a constant temptation" to describe something that someone continually wants or is drawn to, even though they might know it's not good for them. For example, "For him, chocolate cake was "a constant temptation", despite his diet."

What's a more intense way to phrase "a constant temptation"?

If you want to emphasize the difficulty of resisting, you could use "an irresistible urge" or "a magnetic pull". These phrases convey a stronger sense of compulsion.

What are some alternatives to "a constant temptation"?

Alternatives include "an ever-present lure", "a perpetual enticement", or "an ongoing desire". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say "a constantly tempting" instead of "a constant temptation"?

While "constantly tempting" is grammatically correct, ""a constant temptation"" is more common and idiomatic. "Constantly tempting" emphasizes the act of tempting, whereas ""a constant temptation"" emphasizes the state of being tempted.