resist temptation

USAGE SUMMARY

"resist temptation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in any context when you are trying to encourage or advise someone to not give in to an urge or desire. For example, "Whatever you do, resist temptation and keep studying for your exam."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I resist temptation.

The Economist

It's more difficult to resist temptation.

The New York Times

Maybe it was time to resist temptation.

The New Yorker

So will Frodo Clegg resist temptation?

The Guardian

It's easier to delay gratification or resist temptation".

The New York Times

He was skeptical of Ms. Lohan's ability to resist temptation.

The New York Times

Suddenly, Gollum-like, he can resist temptation no longer.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The question is whether a person can be trained to resist temptation.

The New York Times

Is this man a pedophile or a regular guy who couldn't resist temptation?

The New York Times - Books

Another friend, Cynthia Regina Kingg), warns her against playing around, that she must resist temptation.

The New York Times - Arts

Henry Francis, describing this in the tournament bulletin, could not resist temptation.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing personal goals or resolutions, use "resist temptation" to emphasize the importance of willpower in achieving those goals. For example, "To improve my health, I must actively "resist temptation" and choose nutritious foods."

Common error

Be careful not to use "resist temptation" when the situation involves a compulsion or addiction, which requires a different approach than simple willpower. "Resisting temptation" implies a conscious choice, whereas overcoming a compulsion often requires professional help.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "resist temptation" primarily functions as a verb phrase where "resist" is the verb and "temptation" is the direct object. It describes the action of opposing or fighting against an allurement. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Wiki

21%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "resist temptation" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to convey the act of opposing or avoiding an alluring desire or impulse. Ludwig AI confirms its versatility and correct usage. Predominantly found in News & Media, Wiki, and Scientific sources, its function is often to advise or encourage self-control. While the phrase is generally neutral, its effective use involves understanding the context and avoiding its application to situations that require more than just willpower, such as compulsions or addictions. To enhance writing, one might also consider using alternatives like "withstand temptation" or "avoid temptation".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

withstand temptation

Emphasizes the act of enduring or holding out against temptation.

avoid temptation

Focuses on steering clear of situations that might lead to succumbing to desires.

overcome temptation

Highlights the successful conquering of tempting desires.

fight off temptation

Suggests a struggle or active resistance against temptation.

turn down temptation

Indicates a refusal or rejection of something tempting.

abstain from temptation

Implies a deliberate choice to refrain from indulging in something tempting.

refrain from temptation

Similar to abstain, but slightly less formal.

control impulses

Broader than temptation, referring to general self-control over sudden urges.

exercise self-restraint

Highlights the conscious effort to control one's desires.

practice self-control

Emphasizes the ongoing development of the ability to manage desires.

FAQs

How can I use "resist temptation" in a sentence?

You can use "resist temptation" when you want to express the act of avoiding something alluring but potentially harmful, like in the sentence, "It's crucial to "resist temptation" and focus on your studies before the exam."

What are some phrases similar to "resist temptation"?

Alternatives to "resist temptation" include "withstand temptation", "avoid temptation", or "overcome temptation" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always possible to "resist temptation"?

While "resist temptation" is a desirable goal, various factors like stress, fatigue, and genetics can influence a person's ability to do so. Sometimes, avoiding the tempting situation altogether is a more effective strategy.

Can "resist temptation" apply to more than just food?

Yes, "resist temptation" is versatile and can apply to various situations, such as "resisting the urge" to spend impulsively, engaging in gossip, or procrastinating on important tasks.