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 Fortunately, Free People’s sale section is bursting at the seams right now — featuring longline shorts made for pairing with cowboy boots, oversized crewnecks you’ll be tempted to throw on over your bikini once the sun goes down, and similar seasonal essentials. Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 9 July 2025 And will she be tempted to get a heart freckle tattoo herself? Reia Li, AZCentral.com, 8 July 2025 However, the menu was tempting enough to clear my schedule for the entire day. Evan Moore july 8, Charlotte Observer, 8 July 2025 There has always been a huge churn among Pep Guardiola’s staff throughout his time at Manchester City, with Mikel Arteta and Enzo Maresca just two of the assistants being tempted away by major opportunities elsewhere — but this year there was a definite appetite for change within the club. Sam Lee, New York Times, 8 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for tempt
Recent Examples of Synonyms for tempt
Verb
  • As a result, Ireland, Singapore, and other countries began offering tax incentives to lure U.S. pharmaceutical firms into establishing manufacturing operations and subsidiaries within their borders.
    Thomas J. Bollyky, Foreign Affairs, 22 July 2025
  • Promotions like Miami Spice and Taste the Gables, which runs through the end of July, are a way to lure customers during what is becoming an ever-longer low season.
    Connie Ogle July 22, Miami Herald, 22 July 2025
Verb
  • Without clear boundaries, AI companions risk becoming emotionally immersive experiences with few safeguards and no professional accountability.
    Cornelia C. Walther, Forbes.com, 16 July 2025
  • These included two strapping Irish setters, whose owner was relocating to London for work and did not want to risk shipping her pets as airborne cargo.
    Guy Trebay, Travel + Leisure, 15 July 2025
Verb
  • Split rumors arose when Furlan revealed that she had been seduced by a catfish posing as musician Ronnie Radke.
    Bailey Richards, People.com, 20 July 2025
  • Instead, Piero and Lara are cautiously trying to seduce one another while protecting themselves from shagging what could be a crazy person.
    Peter Debruge, Variety, 16 July 2025
Verb
  • For six months, President Trump tried to entice Putin to the table.
    CBS News, CBS News, 13 July 2025
  • Culinary delight often begins with a visual feast that entices people to indulge in delicious flavors.
    Molly Peck, USA Today, 10 July 2025
Verb
  • Eventually, the victim is persuaded to contact an IT security representative, who, in fact, is part of the ransomware operation.
    Dan Goodin, ArsTechnica, 26 July 2025
  • During an interview with The Standard, Ozzy admitted that even though he was intoxicated during the violent incident, that didn't persuade him to stop drinking.
    Janelle Ash, FOXNews.com, 24 July 2025
Verb
  • The police betray each other, the gangsters betray each other and Nam-hyeok can’t even trust his own informant.
    Joan MacDonald, Forbes.com, 20 July 2025
  • His eyes were laser focused, his mouth betraying the physicality of the challenge.
    Donna Vickroy, Chicago Tribune, 17 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Tempt.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/tempt. Accessed 30 Jul. 2025.

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