a lure for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a lure for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to something that attracts or entices someone or something, often in a deceptive or manipulative way. Example: "The bright lights of the city served as a lure for tourists seeking adventure and excitement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Snark is a lure for both groups.

The New Yorker

But, oddly, that is a lure for some.

The Economist

This may be a cynical ploy — a lure for runaways.

The New Yorker

Each free guest was a lure for others who paid.

The Economist

If so, that's hardly a lure for advertisers.

The Guardian

Gatsby's parties are only a front, a lure for the big fish.

The New Yorker

This is not because they fear that the Republican convention will provide a lure for terrorists.

The Economist

But the coverage is a lure for readers, both in print and online.

The New York Times

But those two sports, to name two, still hold a lure for me as an adult.

The New York Times - Sports

As a lure for the offerings, the government has given pricing concessions.

The New York Times

His parents' shop was no longer a lure for him to return to his home town.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a lure for", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being attracted and why. The phrase often carries a connotation of something desirable or beneficial.

Common error

Avoid using "a lure for" when the attraction is negative or unwanted. Opt for neutral alternatives like "an attraction for" or "a draw for" if the implication is not necessarily positive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a lure for" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to indicate something that attracts or entices. It describes what is acting as an attraction, as supported by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Academia

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Science

7%

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a lure for" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that denotes something attractive or enticing. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's correct and usable in various contexts, though one should be mindful of its connotation to avoid misapplication. Predominantly found in news and media sources, it serves to highlight the appealing qualities that draw individuals or entities to something. While synonyms like "an attraction for" or "an enticement to" exist, "a lure for" maintains a unique nuance, emphasizing both the appeal and the potential benefit or reward that attracts individuals.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an enticement to

Focuses more on the act of enticing and less on the inherent attraction.

an attraction for

A more neutral alternative, simply suggesting something appealing.

a draw for

Highlights the pulling power or attractiveness of something.

a magnet for

Implies a strong, almost irresistible pull.

an allurement to

A slightly more formal and poetic alternative, emphasizing charm.

a temptation for

Suggests something desirable but potentially risky or forbidden.

a bait for

Implies a deliberate attempt to trap or deceive.

an incentive to

Focuses on providing a reason or motivation to do something.

a stimulus for

Highlights the act of prompting or encouraging something.

a motivation for

Emphasizes the underlying reason behind someone's actions.

FAQs

How can I use "a lure for" in a sentence?

Use "a lure for" to describe something that attracts or entices. For example, "The promise of higher salaries was "a lure for" many young graduates."

What's a synonym for "a lure for"?

Synonyms include "an attraction for", "a draw for", "an enticement to", or "a magnet for". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "a lure to" instead of "a lure for"?

While "lure to" might be used in some contexts, ""a lure for"" is the more common and grammatically standard construction.

What is the difference between "a lure for" and "a bait for"?

"A lure for" generally implies an attraction or enticement, while "a bait for" often suggests a more deceptive or manipulative intent. Bait is specifically used to trap, while a lure can simply attract.