tempt
6 synonyms and 2 antonyms for tempt, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To try to get someone to do something, often something unwise, usually by making it look appealing.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use tempt
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
tempt someone into
tempted to
tempt fate
Etymology
From Old French tempter, from Latin temptare ("to test, try, handle"), a frequentative form of tendere ("to stretch").
Full origin of tempt →Frequently asked questions
What does “tempt” mean?
The word “tempt” means to try to get someone to do something, often something unwise, usually by making it look appealing. In plain terms, to make someone want to do something, especially something they probably shouldn't.
How do you pronounce “tempt”?
“Tempt” is pronounced tehmpt (/tɛmpt/ in IPA).
How do you use “tempt” in a sentence?
Here is “tempt” used in a sentence: “The smell of fresh bread tempted him to buy a loaf he didn't need.”
What part of speech is “tempt”?
“Tempt” is a verb.
Where does the word “tempt” come from?
The word “tempt” comes from Latin. From Old French tempter, from Latin temptare ("to test, try, handle"), a frequentative form of tendere ("to stretch").
Is “tempt” a common word?
“Tempt” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
