tempt them

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tempt them" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the act of enticing or alluring someone to do something, often with a connotation of seduction or persuasion. Example: "The advertisement was designed to tempt them into purchasing the latest smartphone."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Choo, at least, should tempt them.

The New York Times - Sports

There wasn't much to tempt them.

The New York Times - Food

We dare not tempt them with weakness.

The Guardian

But at today's prices, few can afford to tempt them.

The Economist

The government response is to try to tempt them back.

The Guardian

That must tempt them to say yes to ideas of dubious originality.

The Economist

Their bites are almost never meant for us, but it's best not to tempt them.

The New Yorker

The app can tempt them with discounts or provide more information about products.

The Economist

To tempt them back, the PSE needs root-and-branch reform.

The Economist

If there are rich and hungry collectors out there, the Dr Williams copy should tempt them.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Your child is less likely to overindulge if the sweet treats you have in the house do not tempt them--or you!

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "tempt them", consider the ethical implications. Ensure the enticement is fair and doesn't exploit vulnerabilities.

Common error

Avoid using "tempt them" in contexts where a neutral or positive influence is intended; it often carries a subtle implication of risk or potential wrongdoing. Consider using "encourage them" or "motivate them" for more positive scenarios.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tempt them" functions as a verb phrase. It describes an action taken to entice or attract someone to do something, often with the implication of a desired outcome for the one doing the tempting. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

84%

Wiki

8%

Science

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "tempt them" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression that describes the act of enticing or attracting individuals towards a particular action or choice. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. Analysis of various sources reveals that it is most frequently used in the context of News & Media. While seemingly straightforward, writers should be mindful of the connotations when using the phrase, as it can sometimes imply risk or potential wrongdoing. Consider using alternative phrases like "entice them" or "attract them" depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

entice them

Focuses on attracting through pleasure or advantage; a direct synonym with similar connotations.

allure them

Similar to "lure", but with a focus on the inherent attractiveness or charm of the enticement.

lure them

Emphasizes the act of attracting with a hidden benefit or trap; implies a stronger pull.

attract them

A more general term for drawing someone's interest without necessarily implying a deliberate intention to persuade.

persuade them

Highlights the act of convincing someone through reasoning or argument rather than mere attraction.

draw them in

Focuses on the process of attracting someone gradually, often to a specific location or situation.

entrap them

Implies trickery or deceit in attracting someone, often with negative consequences.

seduce them

Suggests a more powerful and potentially manipulative form of enticement, often appealing to desires.

woo them

Implies courting or seeking favor, often used in a romantic context but applicable to other scenarios.

incite them

Suggests provoking or stirring up a reaction, which may or may not involve enticement.

FAQs

How can I use "tempt them" in a sentence?

You can use "tempt them" when you want to express the idea of enticing or attracting someone to do something. For example: "Retailers will be hoping that Oprah and all her glitzy goodies will "tempt them" to change their minds."

What can I say instead of "tempt them"?

You can use alternatives like "entice them", "lure them", or "attract them" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "tempt them" or "tease them"?

"Tempt them" suggests enticing someone with something desirable, while "tease them" implies playfully provoking or mocking them. The correct choice depends on your intended meaning.

What's the difference between "tempt them" and "persuade them"?

"Tempt them" focuses on enticing through attraction, often appealing to desires, whereas "persuade them" involves convincing through reasoning or argument.