temptation
B2Formal to Neutral
Definition
Meaning
A strong desire to do something, especially something that is wrong, unwise, or against one's principles.
The act of tempting or the state of being tempted; something that tempts or entices.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Often carries a moral or ethical dimension, implying a conflict between desire and duty or restraint. Can be used literally (religious context) or figuratively (everyday context).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical differences.
Connotations
Identical. Strongly associated with religious/moral contexts, but widely used in secular contexts for any strong, often harmful, desire.
Frequency
Equally common in both varieties.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
temptation to + infinitive (e.g., temptation to eat)temptation of + noun/gerund (e.g., temptation of power)temptation for + person (e.g., temptation for him)Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “lead (someone) into temptation”
- “a temptation too far”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Refers to unethical shortcuts or financially risky opportunities, e.g., 'The temptation to falsify the data was strong.'
Academic
Used in psychology, ethics, and religious studies to discuss impulse control and moral decision-making.
Everyday
Commonly used for minor desires, e.g., food, spending, procrastination: 'I couldn't resist the temptation of another biscuit.'
Technical
In cybersecurity, refers to 'clickbait' or phishing attempts designed to lure users.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- He was sorely tempted to skip the queue.
- The offer tempts one into complacency.
American English
- I'm tempted to just order takeout.
- The low price tempted her into buying more.
adverb
British English
- The cake looked temptingly delicious.
- He smiled temptingly.
American English
- The ads were temptingly placed.
- The door was left temptingly ajar.
adjective
British English
- The offer was very tempting.
- He faced a tempting array of desserts.
American English
- It's a tempting proposition.
- She ignored the tempting smell of popcorn.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- The chocolate was a big temptation.
- It's hard to resist temptation.
- I felt a strong temptation to check my phone during the meeting.
- The sales are a temptation for many shoppers.
- Despite the temptation to confront him, she decided to stay silent.
- The government must resist the temptation to raise taxes hastily.
- The philosopher explored the very nature of temptation and free will.
- Urban planning should reduce the temptation for citizens to use private vehicles.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
TEMP-TATION: Imagine a TEMPorary fix that feels like a VATION (vacation) from your rules, but it's just a temptation.
Conceptual Metaphor
TEMPTATION IS A LURE/BAIT (He took the bait), TEMPTATION IS A FORCE (She was overcome by temptation), TEMPTATION IS A SIREN'S SONG (irresistible but dangerous call).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid direct translation of 'соблазн' in all contexts; 'temptation' is stronger and more morally charged than the neutral 'attraction'.
- Do not confuse with 'искушение' which is a direct cognate but less common in casual English.
Common Mistakes
- Using 'temptation' as a verb (incorrect: 'He temptation me' - correct: 'He tempted me').
- Using 'temptation' for a person who tempts (incorrect: 'She is a great temptation' is figurative; correct for a person: 'She is a great temptress/tempter').
Practice
Quiz
In a religious context, 'temptation' most closely relates to:
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Mostly yes, as it implies a desire for something potentially harmful or unwise. However, it can be used playfully for minor indulgences ('the temptation of a weekend nap').
'Desire' is a neutral term for wanting something. 'Temptation' specifically refers to a desire that conflicts with one's better judgment, principles, or long-term goals.
Rarely in a purely positive sense. Even when the outcome is good (e.g., 'the temptation to try something new led to success'), the word focuses on the internal struggle against fear or inertia.
The verb is 'to tempt' (e.g., 'The sunny weather tempted us outside'). It means to entice or attract someone to do something, often something they shouldn't.