Synonyms of temptation

temptation

noun

tem(p)-ˈtā-shən 

1

as in seduction

the pressure to give in to a desire for easy or immediate pleasure

he felt the temptation to go sailing, but did his chores instead

Synonyms & Similar Words

• seduction
• lure
• appeal
• attraction
• enticement
• allurement
• attractiveness
• invitation
• power
• charm
• allure
• glamour
• influence
• inducement
• siren song
• bait
• enchantment
• persuasion
• sway
• beckoning

2

as in lure

something that persuades one to perform an action for pleasure or gain

money, power, and other overwhelming temptations can seduce a person to a life of crime

Synonyms & Similar Words

• lure
• incentive
• attraction
• enticement
• motivation
• bait
• impetus
• come-on
• turn-on
• allurement
• stimulus
• boost
• appeal
• impulse
• encouragement
• siren song
• seduction
• inducement
• persuasion
• goad
• call
• spur
• trap
• snare
• seducement
• entrapment
• decoy
• mousetrap

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• warning
• notice
• caution
• alarm
• alert
• forewarning

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of temptation

Then we will be prepared, no matter how temptations may come, not to get inflamed by impositions, insults, and offenses that speak to the opposite belief in some other presence or power. — Mark Swinney, Christian Science Monitor, 21 July 2026

Most walkers complete the trail in three to four hours, though the temptation to stop frequently can easily push that longer. — Taryn White, Travel + Leisure, 21 July 2026

The poem draws on Greek mythology to weave a morality tale exploring themes of hospitality, hubris, loyalty, temptation, and free will. — Brianna Zigler, Entertainment Weekly, 20 July 2026

For example, if your place has a dining room, resist the temptation to squeeze in a table for six when a normal-size table for four would be more comfortable. — Andee Tagle, NPR, 19 July 2026