be tempted by a

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be tempted by a" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the allure or attraction of something that may lead to a desire to engage in a particular action or behavior. Example: "Many people find it hard to resist the urge to be tempted by a delicious dessert when they are on a diet."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Don't be tempted by a nightcap.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Who wouldn't be tempted by a vertical record player?

Independent

But sure, I might be tempted by a real Rembrandt.

The Guardian - Arts

Perhaps South would be tempted by a possible overtrick.

The New York Times

Would you, for example, be tempted by a holiday in Mexico this year?

The Guardian - Opinion

Siemens is less keen to expand in this area, but it may be tempted by a fire-sale price.

The Economist

He may be tempted by a career in politics but he would have to cut down on the colourful language.

The Economist

An outsider might be tempted by a more mundane theory, that Iranians exhaust their need for freedom on the road.

The New York Times

Jones is not the first critically acclaimed film-maker to be tempted by a high-profile video game adaptation.

The Guardian - Film

Prices for Tuscan wines are less friendly, although I would definitely be tempted by a 2004 Brunello di Montalcino from Gianni Brunelli for $130.

The New York Times - Food

To Covet: From El Bulli's Cellars to Yours Perhaps you have a spare $1,000 or so and might be tempted by a bottle of 1997 Pétrus?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be tempted by a" to convey a sense of allurement or attraction, suggesting that the subject is considering a course of action or choice due to its appeal.

Common error

Avoid using "be tempted by a" when you want to express active desire or seeking. The phrase implies an external influence or allurement, so use active constructions like "I want" or "I desire" when expressing personal agency.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be tempted by a" functions as a passive construction, indicating that someone or something is experiencing the allure or enticement of something else. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be tempted by a" is a grammatically correct and very common passive construction used to describe the feeling of attraction or desire towards something. As Ludwig AI confirms, its neutral register makes it suitable for various contexts, particularly in news and media. While alternatives like "be lured by a" or "be enticed by a" exist, "be tempted by a" effectively conveys the sense of potential yielding to an alluring influence. Remember to use it when you want to emphasize the experience of being drawn to something appealing, suggesting a decision is pending.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be lured by a

Emphasizes the attractiveness or allurement leading to temptation.

be drawn to a

Focuses on the magnetic-like pull or attraction.

be enticed by a

Highlights the aspect of being persuaded through charm or pleasure.

find attractive a

Shifts the focus to personal appeal or preference.

be allured by a

Stresses the powerful attraction of something.

be seduced by a

Implies a more intense and possibly deceptive form of temptation.

be captivated by a

Highlights being completely charmed or entranced.

succumb to a

Implies giving in to a temptation, often against better judgment.

give in to a

Focuses on the act of surrendering to a desire or temptation.

fall for a

Suggests naively or unwisely being attracted to something.

FAQs

How can I use "be tempted by a" in a sentence?

You can use "be tempted by a" to describe someone being drawn to something appealing, like "Many dieters "are tempted by a" sweet treat".

What phrases are similar to "be tempted by a"?

Alternatives include "be lured by a", "be drawn to a", or "be enticed by a", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "being tempted by a"?

Yes, "being tempted by a" is grammatically correct. It's often used in continuous tenses or as part of a gerund phrase, such as "She resisted "being tempted by a" second slice of cake".

What's the difference between "be tempted by a" and "give in to"?

"Be tempted by a" describes the feeling of attraction, while "give in to" describes the action of succumbing to that temptation. For example, "I was tempted by the offer" versus "I gave in to temptation and accepted the offer".