tempting

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'tempting' is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in a context where something is inviting, alluring, and/or appealing. For example, "The warm chocolate cake was so tempting that I just had to try a slice."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Lifestyle

Travel

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

TEMPTING fate is never wise; tempting a flu pandemic is downright foolish.

The Economist

The rooms look a bit like stone thatched wigwams, some with private terraces, but it's the drama of the cliff-edge dotted with diving platforms that holds everyone's attention, alternately tempting and terrifying.

The Guardian - Travel

It is also tempting to consider the wider human question of why this sort of thing doesn't happen more often.

The Guardian - Sport

While it may be tempting to attribute this to the notion that the Democratic party machine and rank-and-file are simply more open and accepting of women in top leadership roles, the real answer is more complex.

The Guardian - Opinion

Watching the subsequent derby unfold, however, it was tempting to conclude that De Prà's mission must have succeeded after all.

The Guardian - Sport

Periscope (Free) Twitter's new live-streaming video app has a ton of hype, and it's tempting to write it off as a novelty when you see endless broadcasts of cats, kids and parties you're not invited to.

The Guardian - Tech

Caorle, a few miles further east, was immortalised by Ernest Hemingway in his 1950 novel Across the River and into the Trees, so it is tempting to stop off at its expansive lagoon.

The Guardian - Travel

Given the cumulative public disapproval on this subject, it is tempting for politicians to give voice to that.

The Guardian

Seeing the lads leering in that domineering row at the front of the stage like they used to sounds tempting.

The Guardian - Music

It is tempting to wonder whether their former club, Real Madrid, might have missed either player as they laboured to a 2-2 drawithth Villarreal.

The Guardian - Sport

Leave space for Beyoncé Sure, it might be tempting to fill the entire frame with a grotesque closeup of your own face.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "tempting" to describe something that is not only attractive but also suggests a slight risk or a decision that requires willpower to resist. For example, "tempting fate".

Common error

While "tempting" is widely understood, overuse in formal writing can weaken the impact. Consider stronger, more precise synonyms like "compelling" or "alluring" /s/alluring for a more nuanced effect.

Linguistic Context

The word "tempting" functions primarily as an adjective, describing something that is attractive, appealing, or alluring. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples where "tempting" modifies nouns to convey a sense of enticement.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Lifestyle

16%

Travel

9%

Less common in

Opinion

6%

Sport

6%

Books

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "tempting" is a versatile adjective used to describe something alluring, attractive, or inviting. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and widely used in various contexts, especially in News & Media. While generally neutral in tone, "tempting" can suggest a slight risk or a difficult decision. For example, "TEMPTING fate is never wise". Remember to consider stronger synonyms like "compelling" or "alluring" /s/alluring for more precise and impactful writing. By understanding its nuances, you can effectively convey the sense of enticement and desire that "tempting" embodies.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

alluring

Emphasizes the quality of being powerfully and mysteriously attractive or fascinating.

enticing

Highlights the act of attracting or luring by offering pleasure or advantage.

inviting

Focuses on the welcoming and appealing nature of something.

appealing

Stresses the quality of being attractive or interesting.

attractive

A general term for something that draws attention and is pleasing.

seductive

Suggests a captivating and persuasive quality that can lead to temptation.

irresistible

Implies an inability to resist or refuse, highlighting its compelling nature.

delightful

Focuses on the pleasure and enjoyment that something offers.

captivating

Emphasizes the ability to hold someone's attention and interest.

magnetic

Suggests a strong and compelling attraction, similar to a magnet.

FAQs

How can I use "tempting" in a sentence?

You can use "tempting" to describe something attractive and hard to resist, such as "The dessert menu was filled with tempting treats" or "It was tempting to skip work and go to the beach".

What are some synonyms for "tempting"?

Alternatives to "tempting" include "alluring", "enticing", "inviting", and "appealing depending on the context".

Is it correct to say "something is tempting to do"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. For example, "It is tempting to ignore the warning signs", but remember that it's more correct to say "It is tempting to do something".

What is the difference between "tempting" and "inviting"?

"Tempting" implies a degree of enticement or allurement, often with a hint of risk or a difficult choice. "Inviting", on the other hand, simply suggests something is welcoming or appealing.