English Reference
adjective · verb · noun

tempting

adj. · v. · n.
US /ˈtɛmptɪŋ/ UK /tˈɛmptɪŋ/ tempt·ing

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    adj.something that looks or sounds so good that you really want it.

    adj.appealing or enticing in a way that creates a strong desire to possess or experience something.

    Simple

    The chocolate cake in the window looked very tempting after a long day.

    In context

    The job offer was incredibly tempting, featuring a significant salary increase and the opportunity to lead a global team from the London office.

    unappealingrepulsive
  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    v.the action of trying to make someone do something, often something wrong.

    v.the present participle of 'tempt', describing the act of enticing or inciting someone to do something unwise or immoral.

    Simple

    He was tempting his friend to skip class and go to the beach instead.

    In context

    By offering such a high commission, the company was essentially tempting its agents to overlook the ethical implications of the deal.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced Formal

    n.the act of making someone feel they want to do something they should not.

    n.the gerund form representing the act of subjecting an individual to temptation or enticement.

    Simple

    The tempting of the young prince with power led to a great war.

    In context

    The narrative focuses on the constant tempting of the protagonist, illustrating his gradual descent into corruption as he prioritises personal gain over his principles.

    enticementallurement
This entry
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated