English Reference

Word

enticing

Phoneticsen·tic·ing, stress on the second syllable

US/ɛnˈtaɪsɪŋ/

UK/ɛntˈaɪsɪŋ/

Definition

adj. very attractive or tempting. You use this to describe something that makes you want to have it or do it.

adj. highly attractive or appealing, often by offering some form of pleasure or advantage. Frequently used to describe offers, prospects, or sensory experiences.

Examples

“The smell of fresh bread is very enticing.”

“The company offered an enticing salary package to attract the best candidates for the role.”

“While the initial proposal seemed enticing, a closer inspection of the contract revealed several hidden clauses that made the deal far less favorable than it first appeared.”

Examples

simple

“The smell of fresh bread is very enticing.”

contextual

“The company offered an enticing salary package to attract the best candidates for the role.”

complex

“While the initial proposal seemed enticing, a closer inspection of the contract revealed several hidden clauses that made the deal far less favorable than it first appeared.”

Usage

Often used predicatively after linking verbs like 'look', 'sound', or 'seem'.

Real-World Examples

“Some marmots are difficult to study because they are wary of researchers' efforts to trap them using wire boxes baited with an enticing mixture of oats and peanut butter, Renkey said.”
Phys.org 21 Aug 2026
“A cute, enticing picture book full of mouthwatering, pastel-hued treats.”
The Guardian 22 May 2026

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Occasional
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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English Reference