it is tempting

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is tempting" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is often used to express a desire or inclination towards something that may be alluring or tempting. Here is an example: "I know I should stick to my diet, but that slice of chocolate cake looks so delicious. It is tempting to indulge just this once."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It is tempting to see a convergence.

The Economist

It is tempting though.

Independent

-- but it is tempting.

The Guardian - Film

It is tempting to answer: insatiable curiosity.

The Economist

It is tempting to say so.

The Economist

It is tempting to say, not much.

The Economist

It is tempting to think so.

The Economist

It is tempting to blame Ms. Carey.

The New York Times

It is tempting to turn and retreat.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is tempting to shrug our shoulders.

The New Yorker

Well, it is tempting to get a highly-paid job.

Stanford University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is tempting" to introduce a course of action that one might want to take, but which may not be the most sensible or advisable.

Common error

While effective, overuse of "it is tempting" can make writing sound repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms like "i'm inclined to" or "i feel drawn to" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is tempting" functions as an introductory expression to a statement of potential action or thought. It sets up a scenario where a particular choice or idea is attractive, albeit possibly against better judgment. The examples from Ludwig AI confirm its use in various contexts to present a potential but perhaps unwise action.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

27%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Wiki

3%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it is tempting" is a versatile expression used to introduce a thought or action that is appealing, though potentially unwise. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across diverse fields. Its frequency is "very common", showing it's a staple in both formal and informal communication, particularly in "news & media" and "science". When you aim to use "it is tempting", remember its purpose: to highlight a desired path while acknowledging potential drawbacks. If you seek alternatives, phrases like "i'm inclined to" or "i feel drawn to" can offer similar nuances. Be mindful of overuse, and vary your vocabulary to maintain a captivating tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

i'm inclined to

Focuses on personal inclination or willingness to do something.

i feel drawn to

Emphasizes the feeling of being attracted or pulled towards something.

i'm disposed to

Highlights a predisposition or tendency towards a particular action.

the allure is strong

Emphasizes the strength of the temptation or attraction.

i find it appealing

Focuses on the attractive or pleasing quality of something.

i'm hard pressed to resist

Highlights the difficulty in opposing the temptation.

the pull is irresistible

Stresses the compelling and undeniable nature of the attraction.

i can't help but want to

Emphasizes the uncontrollable desire to do something.

it's difficult to refuse

Highlights the challenge in declining or rejecting something.

i am struggling to decline

Highlights the challenge of turning down something tempting.

FAQs

How can I use "it is tempting" in a sentence?

You can use "it is tempting" to express a desire or inclination towards something, often something that might not be the best choice. For example, "It is tempting to skip the gym today, but I know I'll feel better if I go."

What can I say instead of "it is tempting"?

You can use alternatives like "i'm inclined to", "i feel drawn to", or "i'm disposed to depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "it's tempting" instead of "it is tempting"?

Yes, "it's tempting" is a contraction of "it is tempting" and is perfectly acceptable in most contexts, especially in informal writing and speech. The choice between the two often comes down to personal preference and the desired level of formality.

What's the difference between "it is tempting" and "it is appealing"?

While both phrases indicate attraction, "it is tempting" often suggests a pull towards something that might be risky or unwise, while "it is appealing" simply means something is attractive or pleasing.