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Tempting Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tempting

[ˈtɛmptɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

to attract or entice someone

Causing an urge or desire to do or have something, especially something that is not good for you. It may refer to something that is alluring, enticing, or seductive.

Synonyms

alluring, appealing, enticing, seductive.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
tempting

Use this word when something is attractive or inviting and you want to do it, often despite knowing it might not be the best choice.

  • The chocolate cake looks tempting, but I am on a diet
  • It's tempting to skip work today and stay in bed
alluring

This word fits when something is very attractive or charming, often in a mysterious or elegant way.

  • The city with its bright lights and busy streets is very alluring
  • She has an alluring smile that captivates everyone
enticing

This word is suitable when something is so attractive that it draws you in, often suggesting it may be hard to resist.

  • The advertisement was enticing, promising incredible discounts
  • The smell of freshly baked cookies was too enticing to ignore
seductive

This word is used when something or someone is very attractive in a sexual way, or an idea that is dangerously attractive, implying a strong and irresistible allure. Often has a negative or risky connotation.

  • The model's seductive pose caught everyone's attention
  • The offer was seductive, but too good to be true
appealing

Use this word when something looks or sounds good or pleasing, often in a positive and straightforward manner.

  • The idea of a weekend getaway sounds very appealing
  • The new movie has an appealing storyline

Examples of usage

  • It was tempting to skip work and spend the day at the beach.
  • The tempting smell of freshly baked cookies filled the kitchen.
  • She found the offer tempting, but ultimately decided against it.
Context #2 | Adjective

to be inviting or appealing

Attractive or inviting to do something, particularly when it may be unwise or harmful. It can also refer to something that is tantalizing or desirable.

Synonyms

appealing, enticing, inviting, irresistible.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
tempting

Best used when referring to something that provokes a strong desire, often something you should resist.

  • The dessert menu looks tempting, but I'm trying to eat healthy
inviting

Often used to describe something that makes you want to enter or participate, carrying a warm, welcoming connotation.

  • The cozy living room looked very inviting with its plush sofas and warm lighting
appealing

Used to describe something that is attractive or interesting, generally in a positive and less intense sense.

  • The idea of a vacation in the mountains is very appealing
enticing

Implies something is alluring and often suggests a sense of luring someone in, sometimes with a hint of danger or deception.

  • The job offer was enticing, but I wasn't sure if I could trust the company
irresistible

Used when something is so compelling that you cannot resist it, usually in a strong and often positive sense.

  • The cake was simply irresistible; I couldn't help but have another slice

Examples of usage

  • The tempting aroma of coffee drew her into the café.
  • The store displayed a tempting array of chocolates and sweets.
  • His tempting smile made it hard to resist his offer.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Temptation plays a significant role in behavior studies, often linked to impulse control and decision-making.
  • Research shows that sensations like sight and smell can intensify feelings of temptation, affecting our choices.
  • The concept of delayed gratification is often tied to resisting temptation, influencing personal success in various fields.

Pop Culture

  • Tempting themes are common in movies and songs, often relating to love, food, or adventure.
  • Popular literature often portrays characters torn between temptation and moral choices, creating drama and conflict.
  • Reality TV often models temptation, showcasing how individuals react when faced with allure, like in dating shows or challenges.

Philosophy

  • Various philosophical schools debate the nature of temptation as a test of character or ethical dilemmas.
  • Temptation is frequently explored in religious texts, symbolizing man's struggle against desires versus moral choices.
  • The examination of temptation encourages deeper thought on free will and self-discipline.

Literature

  • Many classic novels depict protagonists faced with temptations that drive the narrative forward, such as in 'The Picture of Dorian Gray'.
  • In fables, temptation often serves as a moral lesson, illustrating the consequences of giving in to desires.
  • Writers often use temptation as a tool to develop characters and their inner conflicts, revealing human nature's complexities.

Origin of 'tempting'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'temptare', which means to try or test.
  • It originally had connotations of testing someone's willpower or morals.
  • In Old French, the related term 'tempter' referred to someone who entices others subtly.

The word 'tempting' originated from the Middle English word 'tempten', which came from the Old French 'tempter' and the Latin 'temptare', meaning 'to test, try, or provoke'. Over time, the meaning evolved to include the idea of enticing or alluring someone to do something, often something that may be considered wrong or unwise.

See also: tempt, temptation, tempter, temptingly, temptress.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,598, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.