a great temptation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a great temptation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a strong desire or urge to do something that may not be advisable or is considered wrong. Example: "Despite knowing the risks, the idea of quitting my job to travel the world was a great temptation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

"There's a great temptation.

The New York Times - Sports

And that is a great temptation".

The New York Times

The role was a great temptation and a greater danger.

The New Yorker

The Italy of "The Great Beauty" is a great temptation.

The New York Times

Now I can write more!' It's a great temptation.

The Guardian - Books

That is a great temptation for the contemporary planetarium.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

The Introduction is not the place to demonstrate that you know all the literature in your field--a great temptation, I grant you, especially if you?ve just completed your dissertation.

Science Magazine

No doubt some religious defenders wanted to employ these bleak visions in a smug apologetic for faith, a greater temptation perhaps in the case of Antonioni, a post-Christian Italian, than of Bergman, an ex-Christian Swede.

The New York Times

This problem may, in fact, represent a greater temptation in IPD meta-analyses due to ready access to individual patient characteristics.

BMC Medical Research Methodology

Similarly, their levels of fruit and vegetable consumption is likely to be higher as there is a greater temptation in the self-completion format to include consumption that falls outside the one-day period covered in the questionnaire.

BMC Medical Research Methodology

The store had to explain that it didn't play ringers; but it must have been an hour of great temptation - what with Macy looming, the way Macy always loom.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a great temptation", consider the ethical implications of the temptation. Does it involve compromising your values or principles?

Common error

While "a great temptation" is a valid phrase, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms like "strong urge" or "irresistible desire" to add nuance and freshness to your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a great temptation" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes something highly appealing that can lead to potentially negative consequences. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

14%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a great temptation" is a commonly used and grammatically correct expression that describes a strong and often risky desire. According to Ludwig, it is used across various contexts, primarily in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business settings. The analysis suggests that the phrase serves to highlight a compelling desire that challenges one's resolve. To avoid overuse, consider alternatives like "strong urge" or "irresistible desire". When using this phrase, it's essential to consider the ethical implications and the potential consequences of succumbing to the temptation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a strong urge

Focuses on the internal feeling of wanting something, rather than the external thing that is tempting.

a powerful attraction

Emphasizes the attractive quality of something, suggesting a pull that is difficult to resist.

an irresistible desire

Highlights the inability to resist the urge, conveying a sense of being compelled.

a magnetic pull

Uses a metaphor to describe the alluring nature of something, suggesting an almost physical force.

an enticing prospect

Focuses on the appealing potential or possibility of something, rather than the immediate desire.

an alluring opportunity

Highlights the attractive nature of a chance or opening.

a seductive offer

Implies a deliberate attempt to persuade or entice someone.

a compelling option

Focuses on the persuasive nature of a choice or alternative.

a tantalizing possibility

Suggests a slightly out-of-reach or speculative appeal.

a sweet seduction

Conveys a gentle but deceptive allure, often with pleasant associations.

FAQs

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

You can use "a great temptation" to describe something that is very appealing but potentially unwise. For example, "Skipping work to go to the beach was "a great temptation", but I knew I had to be responsible."

What are some alternatives to "a great temptation"?

Some alternatives include "a strong urge", "an irresistible desire", or "a powerful attraction". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "a great temptation for"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. You can say "a great temptation for" followed by a person or group of people who are likely to experience the temptation. For instance, "The offer of easy money was "a great temptation" for the struggling students."

What's the difference between "a great temptation" and "a strong desire"?

"A great temptation" implies that the desire is potentially harmful or unwise, whereas "a strong desire" simply indicates a powerful longing. Temptation suggests a moral or practical dilemma.