entice

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb entice differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of entice are decoy, inveigle, lure, seduce, and tempt. While all these words mean "to lead astray from one's true course," entice suggests drawing by artful or adroit means.

advertising designed to entice new customers

When is it sensible to use decoy instead of entice?

While the synonyms decoy and entice are close in meaning, decoy implies a luring into entrapment by artifice.

attempting to decoy the enemy into an ambush

Where would inveigle be a reasonable alternative to entice?

The words inveigle and entice can be used in similar contexts, but inveigle implies enticing by cajoling or flattering.

fund-raisers inveigling wealthy alumni

In what contexts can lure take the place of entice?

Although the words lure and entice have much in common, lure implies a drawing into danger, evil, or difficulty through attracting and deceiving.

lured naive investors with get-rich-quick schemes

When could seduce be used to replace entice?

The meanings of seduce and entice largely overlap; however, seduce implies a leading astray by persuasion or false promises.

seduced by assurances of assistance

When would tempt be a good substitute for entice?

In some situations, the words tempt and entice are roughly equivalent. However, tempt implies the presenting of an attraction so strong that it overcomes the restraints of conscience or better judgment.

tempted by the offer of money

Examples of entice in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Growing the right companion plants near milkweed can entice ladybugs, lacewings, and other beneficial insects to visit and feast on aphids. Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Aug. 2024 That sparked something of a value-meal war, with competing chains soon after attempting to entice diners with their own value meals, many hovering around $5. Jenn Harris, Los Angeles Times, 5 Aug. 2024 Advertisers also have an opportunity to better entice customers by emphasizing friendship in their brand campaigns, rather than couples. Ryan Faughnder, Los Angeles Times, 13 Aug. 2024 Zoom in: Portland's housing availability crisis is continuing to slow down home sales, and pricing drops could potentially entice buyers to take action. Meira Gebel, Axios, 9 Aug. 2024 See all Example Sentences for entice 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'entice.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Thesaurus Entries Near entice

Cite this Entry

“Entice.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/entice. Accessed 20 Sep. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on entice

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