Pronunciation

/tɛmˈpeɪʃ(ə)n/

Definitions

Noun

A temptation is:

1. An attractive but potentially harmful or undesirable thing that tempts one to act on it, often with negative consequences: The forbidden fruit was a temptation for Adam and Eve.
2. An enticement or strong desire to do something: The promise of a promotion was too great a temptation for him to resist.

Verb

To tempt someone means:

1. To allure or persuade someone to do something they might later regret: The chef tempted the customers with his delicious-looking desserts.
2. To offer something enticing as a way to persuade or influence: The company tempted new employees with a lucrative signing bonus.

Phrases

• “Lose oneself to temptation” describes giving in to a strong desire without self-control.
• “Resist the temptation” means to withstand the urge to do something tempting, usually unwise.
• “A test of one’s willpower” refers to a situation where strong temptation is present.

Example Sentences

• Noun: “The siren song of the casino was a constant temptation for him.”
• Verb: “She tried to resist the temptation to indulge in chocolate all day.”
• Verb (passive): “The ad campaign was designed to tempt potential customers.”

Synonyms

• Temptation: Inducement, lure, enticement, allurement, solicitousness
• Be tempted: Yield, give in, succumb, be attracted, be tempted by

Antonyms

• Temptation: Repulsion, aversion, resistance,自制力, discipline