Synonym Chooser

How does the verb tempt differ from other similar words?

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

When would decoy be a good substitute for tempt?

The words decoy and tempt are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, decoy implies a luring into entrapment by artifice.

attempting to decoy the enemy into an ambush

When is it sensible to use entice instead of tempt?

While the synonyms entice and tempt are close in meaning, entice suggests drawing by artful or adroit means.

advertising designed to entice new customers

When is inveigle a more appropriate choice than tempt?

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

fund-raisers inveigling wealthy alumni

When could lure be used to replace tempt?

Although the words lure and tempt 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 can seduce be used instead of tempt?

The synonyms seduce and tempt are sometimes interchangeable, but seduce implies a leading astray by persuasion or false promises.

seduced by assurances of assistance

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of tempt If you’re still tempted to smear cow fat on your face, consult a dermatologist before overhauling your skin care routine. Boutayna Chokrane, WIRED, 14 Mar. 2025 Visit Tallahassee, and you just might be tempted to say the same. Lisa Cericola, Southern Living, 14 Mar. 2025 Here’s a robe so stylish you might be tempted to wear it out of the house. Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 10 Mar. 2025 As per usual, the NFL player was in the comment section fawning over the singer and tempting her with a good time. Elizabeth Ayoola, Essence, 7 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for tempt
Recent Examples of Synonyms for tempt
Verb
  • In years past, I’ve been lured in by the promise of free filing from commercial tax-prep software, only to find out that my situation doesn’t qualify.
    Liz Knueven, CNBC, 21 Mar. 2025
  • Jamie Carragher spoke about how he was lured out of international retirement specifically to work with Capello, having grown up admiring the defensive quality of his old Milan side.
    Michael Cox, The Athletic, 20 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • As the Trump administration tightens its stance on immigration, university officials are wary that foreign passport holders could risk having their visas revoked.
    Zach Wichter, USA TODAY, 20 Mar. 2025
  • Tariffs could also threaten economic growth and employment since duties slapped on imports risk increasing input costs for domestic businesses that rely on raw materials from abroad, some experts told ABC News.
    Max Zahn, ABC News, 19 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • Instinct says to seduce with a decadent chocolate treat, but sadly, my Valentine for the past 20 years isn’t the biggest chocolate lover.
    Martin Sorge, Chicago Tribune, 11 Feb. 2025
  • Raúl Castillo plays against type and makes for a menacing, unstoppable presence in a genre homage that’s yell-at-the-scream enjoyable and seduces with its terrific cinematography from Daniel Katz.
    Randy Myers, The Mercury News, 7 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • Numerous observers believe the Bay Area could begin to see an economic lift from the rush into artificial intelligence, a fledgling field that has enticed investors and fueled startup activity.
    George Avalos, Mercury News, 28 Mar. 2025
  • And there are plenty of people out there to entice, given that the majority of Americans these days aren’t regular moviegoers.
    William Earl, Variety, 27 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • The two-day violence was a major setback in Damascus’ efforts to improve its image and persuade Europe and the United States to lift economic sanctions after over a decade of conflict.
    Omar Albam and Kareem Chehayeb, Los Angeles Times, 25 Mar. 2025
  • In the administrations of Barack Obama and Joe Biden, Democrats pursued a mix of subsidies and mandates in an attempt to persuade and cajole car manufacturers and consumers to move from gas to electric vehicles.
    The Editors, National Review, 24 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • The story of these Penguins will be that of a team that lost out on a playoff spot because it was too often betrayed by bad goaltending and comical defensive meltdowns.
    Josh Yohe, The Athletic, 22 Mar. 2025
  • This decision could strain their relationship, as her son might feel abandoned or betrayed.
    Ashley Vega, People.com, 19 Mar. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Tempt.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/tempt. Accessed 2 Apr. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on tempt

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!