adjective
Uncommon
tempting
TEHMP-tihng
Tempting (adjective) means Attractive or appealing in a way that makes you want to give in to it. Example: “A tempting offer of early retirement landed on his desk.”
adjective
1
Attractive or appealing in a way that makes you want to give in to it.
"A tempting offer of early retirement landed on his desk."
"The cake looked so tempting that she couldn't resist a slice."
"It is tempting to stay in bed on a cold, rainy morning."
How to use tempting
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSo appealing you want to say yes, even if you probably shouldn't.
Common pairings
a tempting offer
tempting to
look tempting
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like tempting.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Plural
- temptings
- Comparative
- more tempting
- Superlative
- most tempting
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
A _____ offer of early retirement landed on his desk.
Synonyms
View more →
enticing
alluring
appealing
inviting
irresistible
seductive
tantalising
tantalizing
beguiling
slinky
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “tempting” mean?
The word “tempting” means attractive or appealing in a way that makes you want to give in to it. In plain terms, so appealing you want to say yes, even if you probably shouldn't.
How do you pronounce “tempting”?
“Tempting” is pronounced TEHMP-tihng (/ˈtɛmp.tɪŋ/ in IPA).
How do you use “tempting” in a sentence?
Here is “tempting” used in a sentence: “A tempting offer of early retirement landed on his desk.”
What is another word for “tempting”?
Words with a similar meaning to “tempting” include slinky.
What part of speech is “tempting”?
“Tempting” is an adjective.
Is “tempting” a common word?
“Tempting” is an uncommon word in modern English.
What is the difference between tempting and appealing?
Something tempting makes you want to give in to it, often implying a pull toward something you know you perhaps shouldn't do, such as a tempting dessert, while "appealing" more neutrally describes something attractive without that hint of temptation. Tempting carries a slight edge of resisting versus giving in.
Can "tempting" be used for offers as well as food?
Yes, "tempting" is commonly used for offers, deals, or opportunities attractive enough to make someone want to accept them, not just for food or physical indulgences. A "tempting offer" or "tempting proposal" is a very common collocation.
Is "tempting" a positive or negative word?
"Tempting" is generally positive, describing something attractive and appealing, though it can carry a cautionary undertone when the thing being tempting is also unwise or indulgent, such as a tempting but unhealthy snack. Context determines whether the word leans purely positive or carries a hint of caution.
