are tempted to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are tempted to" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a desire or inclination to do something, often implying a struggle against that desire. Example: "Even though I know I shouldn't eat dessert, I am often tempted to indulge in a slice of cake."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

So some are tempted to dope.

Independent

We are tempted to enter a contest.

The New Yorker

We all are tempted to worship size.

Stanford University

I am sure that you are tempted to believe this.

The New York Times

If you are tempted to try the look, be bold.

The New York Times

So politicians are tempted to lobby peers for softer treatment.

The New York Times

"People are tempted to update their Facebook page, they are tempted to tweet, as if sitting at a desk.

The New York Times - Tech

We realize that politicians are tempted to weaponize fact checks.

The Washington Post

Many people are tempted to pay down their credit cards.

The New York Times

Neighbours, like nature, abhor a vacuum, and are tempted to rush in.

The Economist

None of my sisters or I are tempted to move back.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are tempted to", consider the level of formality required in your writing. While widely acceptable, it may not always be appropriate for highly formal or technical contexts.

Common error

While "are tempted to" is generally acceptable, avoid overuse in formal writing where more precise or technical language may be preferred. Consider alternatives like "inclined to", "predisposed to", or "susceptible to" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are tempted to" functions as a verbal phrase indicating a state of being inclined or drawn towards a particular action or choice. Ludwig confirms its proper use in expressing this inclination, as evidenced by the examples provided.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

19%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Reference

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "are tempted to" is a versatile and commonly used expression indicating an inclination or desire towards something, often with a hint of internal conflict. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, although potentially less fitting in highly formal settings. Predominantly found in "News & Media", its usage spans across diverse fields, reflecting its broad applicability. While phrases like "feel inclined to" or "be prone to" offer similar meanings, they may not always capture the same nuance of internal struggle. Mastering the use of "are tempted to" enhances clarity and expressiveness in conveying the complexities of human desire and decision-making.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

feel inclined to

Emphasizes a leaning or disposition towards something, suggesting a mild desire or preference.

be inclined to

Similar to 'feel inclined to', but may imply a more considered or rational decision.

feel drawn to

Suggests a stronger, almost magnetic pull or attraction towards something.

have a proclivity for

Implies a natural tendency or predisposition towards something, often something specific or characteristic.

can't resist

Emphasizes the inability to avoid or reject something due to its allure.

be susceptible to

Highlights vulnerability or openness to influence or attraction.

have a weakness for

Indicates a particular fondness or inability to resist something.

be predisposed to

Highlights a pre-existing inclination or susceptibility.

find oneself wanting to

Focuses on the emergence of a desire or inclination, often unexpectedly.

be prone to

Suggests a habitual or frequent tendency to do something.

FAQs

How can I use "are tempted to" in a sentence?

You can use "are tempted to" to describe a situation where someone feels a pull or desire towards something, often implying a conflict with what they know they should do. For example, "Many people "are tempted to" overspend during the holidays even if they are on a tight budget."

What's a more formal alternative to "are tempted to"?

In more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "inclined to", "predisposed to", or "susceptible to", depending on the specific meaning you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "am tempted to"?

Yes, "am tempted to" is grammatically correct when the subject is "I". For example, "I am tempted to order pizza tonight."

What is the difference between "are tempted to" and "want to"?

"Want to" expresses a simple desire, while "are tempted to" implies a stronger pull or inclination, often with a sense of internal conflict or awareness of potential negative consequences. "I want to eat ice cream" simply states a desire, whereas "I "are tempted to" eat ice cream" suggests you may be resisting the urge.