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Irresistible: meaning, definitions and examples

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irresistible

 

[ɪrɪˈzɪstəbl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

attraction

Impossible to resist or refuse; enticing; captivating.

Synonyms

alluring, captivating, compelling, enticing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
irresistible

Typically used to describe something so appealing that you cannot stop yourself from wanting it. Often used for objects, food, or even people.

  • The cake looked irresistible, and I couldn't help but have a slice.
  • Her smile was simply irresistible.
captivating

Refers to something that captures and holds your attention completely. Often used for performances, stories, or people.

  • The movie was so captivating that I didn't notice three hours had passed.
  • Her performance in the play was truly captivating.
enticing

Describes something that lures or tempts someone, often with the promise of something good or enjoyable. Can be used for offers, opportunities, or objects.

  • The advertisement promised an enticing discount on all products.
  • The smell of freshly baked cookies was enticing.
alluring

Usually describes something or someone that is very attractive and mysterious, drawing people in. It has a slightly seductive connotation.

  • The ad featured an alluring model in a stunning dress.
  • There's something alluring about the abandoned mansion on the hill.
compelling

Used for something that is so interesting or important that it makes people pay attention. It often refers to arguments, stories, or evidence.

  • The lawyer presented compelling evidence that changed the jury's mind.
  • It was a compelling documentary about climate change.

Examples of usage

  • She had an irresistible charm that drew people to her.
  • The chocolate cake was so irresistible that I had to have a second slice.
  • The music was so irresistible that everyone started dancing.
  • His irresistible smile made her heart skip a beat.
  • The offer was simply irresistible, and I couldn't say no.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from Latin 'irresistibilis,' meaning 'unable to be resisted.'
  • It combines the prefix 'ir-' (not) with 'resistible,' from 'resistere,' meaning to withstand or oppose.
  • The term began to appear in the English language during the late 19th century.

Psychology

  • Research shows that attractive offers or temptations can trigger the brain's reward system, making them hard to resist.
  • People may struggle with self-control when faced with irresistible choices, relating to the concept of delayed gratification.
  • The 'golden rule' of persuasion includes making offers seem irresistible to influence decision-making.

Literature

  • In literature, characters often grapple with irresistible desires, underpinning plot tensions and personal conflicts.
  • Classic works often portray temptations as moral challenges, leading to tragic or comedic outcomes, highlighting human nature.
  • Famous authors like Jane Austen and F. Scott Fitzgerald explore themes of desire and attraction in their narratives.

Pop Culture

  • Many songs and movies use the word 'irresistible' to describe powerful feelings of love or attraction.
  • Advertising strategies often make products feel irresistible by showcasing them in an appealing and desirable context.
  • Cultural icons, like celebrities or chefs, are often labeled 'irresistible' for their charisma or culinary delights, driving public fascination.

Science

  • Studies in consumer behavior show that attractive products can trigger spontaneous purchases, often labeled as irresistible.
  • Biological responses, like the release of dopamine when exposed to appealing stimuli, make some experiences feel irresistible.
  • Food scientists often create flavors that are scientifically engineered to be irresistible, enhancing their appeal.

Translations

Translations of the word "irresistible" in other languages:

🇵🇹 irresistível

🇮🇳 अप्रतिरोध्य

🇩🇪 unwiderstehlich

🇮🇩 tak tertahankan

🇺🇦 непереборний

🇵🇱 nieodparty

🇯🇵 抗し難い (こうしがたい)

🇫🇷 irrésistible

🇪🇸 irresistible

🇹🇷 karşı konulmaz

🇰🇷 저항할 수 없는 (jeohanghal su eomneun)

🇸🇦 لا يقاوم (la yuqawam)

🇨🇿 neodolatelný

🇸🇰 neodolateľný

🇨🇳 不可抗拒的 (bùkě kàngjù de)

🇸🇮 neustavljiv

🇮🇸 óviðráðanlegur

🇰🇿 қарсы тұрғысыз

🇬🇪 დაუძლეველი

🇦🇿 qarşısıalınmaz

🇲🇽 irresistible

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,990 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.