a tempting proposition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a tempting proposition" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an offer or suggestion that is attractive or appealing, often in a persuasive context. Example: "The company presented a tempting proposition that promised significant financial rewards for early investors."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

It is a tempting proposition.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Oh Lord, it's a tempting proposition.

The Guardian - Opinion

On the face of it, the sale is a tempting proposition.

The Economist

It might be a tempting proposition for a potential buyer, like a private equity firm.

The New York Times

They also tout cost savings — a tempting proposition against a backdrop of rising labor costs.

Harvard Business Review

To be fair, firing people isn't easy, and having other people do it for you is a tempting proposition.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

That must be a very tempting proposition for a club of United's size who are facing up to the unknown.

Independent

The online retailer is apparently making a very tempting proposition to some of its customers: go ahead and order a Kindle, and if you don't like it, you'll get your money back — and get to keep the device.

TechCrunch

The online retailer is apparently making a very tempting proposition to some of its customers: go ahead and order a Kindle, and if you don't like it, you'll get your money back — and get to keep the device.

TechCrunch

It's a pretty tempting proposition, though even tech-friendly politicians express reservations.

The New York Times - Magazine

Three hundred and eighty gorgeous acres, more chili than you can shake a spoon at and the inclusion of trailblazing pioneers like Ray Wylie Hubbard, Butch Hancock and Joe Ely make dusting off the tent a very tempting proposition.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When considering your audience, "a tempting proposition" might work well to show that something is especially attractive or persuasive.

Common error

While "a tempting proposition" is widely understood, it can sound slightly formal or business-oriented in very casual conversation. Consider using simpler alternatives like "a great idea" or "a good deal" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a tempting proposition" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "tempting" modifies the noun "proposition". Ludwig AI confirms this, providing examples where it acts as a subject complement or a description of a situation or offer.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

12%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a tempting proposition" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to describe something appealing or attractive. Ludwig AI validates this, showcasing its presence across various reliable sources. It's suitable for formal and informal contexts, though overuse in very casual settings might sound slightly out of place. When writing, remember that alternatives such as "an attractive offer" or "an appealing idea" can provide variety, while retaining the core meaning. The phrase has a neutral register and is a well used figure of speech.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an attractive offer

Focuses on the allure of the offer itself, rather than the overall idea.

an enticing opportunity

Highlights the potential benefits and advantages of the situation.

an appealing idea

Emphasizes the pleasing or agreeable nature of the concept.

a seductive option

Suggests a more powerful and persuasive attraction.

a desirable alternative

Focuses on the preference for this option over others.

a lucrative deal

Highlights the potential for financial gain or profit.

an alluring prospect

Emphasizes the exciting or fascinating quality of the future possibility.

a persuasive argument

Focuses on the convincing nature of the reasoning.

a winning strategy

Highlights the likelihood of success and positive outcomes.

an irresistible invitation

Suggests that the offer is too good to refuse.

FAQs

How can I use "a tempting proposition" in a sentence?

Use "a tempting proposition" to describe something appealing. For example: "The job offer was "a tempting proposition", but I had to consider the location."

What are some alternatives to "a tempting proposition"?

Some alternatives include "an attractive offer", "an enticing opportunity", or "an appealing idea" depending on the context.

Is it okay to use "a tempting proposition" in formal writing?

Yes, "a tempting proposition" is suitable for formal writing, especially in business or academic contexts where you want to convey that something is attractive and worth considering.

What makes something "a tempting proposition"?

Something becomes "a tempting proposition" when it offers significant benefits, advantages, or rewards that make it difficult to refuse or ignore.