tempting proposition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tempting proposition" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an offer or suggestion that is attractive or appealing, often with an implication of risk or moral dilemma. Example: "The job offer was a tempting proposition, promising a high salary and flexible hours, but it required relocating to a city I had never visited."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

Oh Lord, it's a tempting proposition.

The Guardian - Opinion

On the face of it, the sale is a tempting proposition.

The Economist

It might be a tempting proposition for a potential buyer, like a private equity firm.

The New York Times

It's a pretty tempting proposition, though even tech-friendly politicians express reservations.

The New York Times - Magazine

That must be a very tempting proposition for a club of United's size who are facing up to the unknown.

Independent

It languished there until recently, when he noticed a highway billboard in the heart of Silicon Valley offering a tempting proposition: "You drop it off.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

By most standards of judgment short of actually owning the Sorento for a while, Kia's S.U.V. seems to offer a tempting value proposition.

The New York Times

Loizos Heracleous, a professor of strategy at Warwick Business School, said: "Ryanair's combination of the highest levels of efficiency in the industry, swift expansion via new routes, growth of ancillary revenues and high flight frequency, as well as bargain fares and acceptable levels of service, has proven to be a very tempting value proposition for customers and a winning business model".

Independent

It's tempting, tempting...

The New York Times

In Arthur Ransome's Winter Holiday the ice is an equally tempting and positive proposition; and one the children are longing for.

The Guardian

Amazingly, as the idea of inner-city living has yet to enter mainstream Johannesburg in earnest, believers in this project can pick up a studio for as little as 350,000 rand, making this urban revolution a tempting and realistic proposition.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "tempting proposition" to describe options that are attractive but might involve risk or difficult choices. It conveys a sense of allure that needs careful consideration.

Common error

While appropriate in many scenarios, avoid using "tempting proposition" excessively in very formal or academic writing. Opt for alternatives like "compelling offer" or "attractive opportunity" for a more neutral tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tempting proposition" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "tempting" modifies the noun "proposition". It describes something presented or offered that is attractive and desirable, as Ludwig AI suggests.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "tempting proposition" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe an attractive offer or suggestion. As Ludwig AI pointed out, it's widely employed across various contexts, primarily in news and media, and to a lesser extent in science and business. While versatile, more formal alternatives might be preferable in strictly academic settings. Remember that the phrase suggests not only appeal, but the need for careful assessment due to potential risks or drawbacks. Consider using synonyms like "compelling proposition" or "alluring offer" to fine-tune the nuance of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

attractive proposition

A more general term indicating the pleasing qualities of the offer.

appealing proposition

Similar to attractive, but may suggest a more emotional connection.

inviting proposition

Highlights the welcoming and appealing nature of the offer.

compelling proposition

Highlights the irresistible nature of the offer due to its inherent advantages.

enticing offer

Focuses on the attractiveness of what is being offered, often with a hint of something more.

seductive proposition

Implies a stronger allure, often with a hint of danger or moral ambiguity.

alluring proposition

Suggests a mysterious and captivating quality, making the offer hard to resist.

exciting proposition

Emphasizes the stimulating and thrilling aspect of the offer.

tempting suggestion

A milder alternative, focusing on the idea being presented rather than a formal arrangement.

charming proposition

Suggests a delightful and pleasing quality to the offer.

FAQs

How to use "tempting proposition" in a sentence?

You can use "tempting proposition" to describe a situation where an offer or suggestion is appealing but might have potential drawbacks. For example: "The new job offer was a "tempting proposition" because of the high salary, but it required relocating to a different country."

What can I say instead of "tempting proposition"?

You can use alternatives like "attractive offer", "compelling opportunity", or "alluring idea" depending on the specific context.

What's the difference between "tempting proposition" and "enticing offer"?

"Tempting proposition" suggests an element of risk or moral dilemma alongside the appeal, while "enticing offer" simply highlights the attractive aspects of the offer without necessarily implying danger.

Is "tempting proposition" suitable for formal writing?

While "tempting proposition" is generally acceptable, it might be better to use more formal alternatives like "compelling proposal" or "attractive opportunity" in academic or business writing to maintain a professional tone.