temptation - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
temptation Word Meanings
- the desire to do something, often something wrong or unwise
- a thing that entices or attracts someone
temptation Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
temptation Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/tɛmˈteɪʃən/
US
/tɛmˈteɪʃən/
temptation Word Etymology
Latin 'temptare' (to try, to test) + suffix '-ation' (the action of) → Old French 'temptation' → English. Imagine a scene where someone is at a crossroads, tempted to take the shiny, forbidden path over the safer road, symbolizing the struggle between desire and wisdom.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Temptation is the pull to do something that you know is risky, wrong, or against your better judgment. In everyday English, you can describe a moment when a shiny new snack, a risky gamble, or an old habit appears suddenly attractive. The word often appears with phrases like give in to temptation or resist temptation, and it carries moral weight rather than mere curiosity. Temptation can be internal, emotional, or situational, and it frequently involves a choice between short-term pleasure and long-term goals. Understanding its nuance helps learners avoid misusing it for mild preferences.
Usage Reminders
- Note common collocations: resist temptation and give in to temptation.
- Temptation often implies a moral choice, not just liking something.
- Temptation can be internal or situational.
- Distinguish temptation from simple curiosity or preference.
- Practice with realistic scenarios in work, health, or finance.
Common Misconceptions
- Temptation always leads to something clearly wrong.
- Feeling tempted means you must act on it immediately.
- Temptation only happens in major moral crises.
- Resisting temptation means you will never want the thing again.
- Temptation is the same as simply a strong preference or curiosity.
Thinking Differences
In English, temptation is often a moral test framed with resist or give in to temptation; learners frequently confuse temptation with mere desire and overgeneralize to non-moral situations.
Learning Tips
- Note common collocations: resist temptation, give in to temptation.
- Remember temptation often implies a moral choice, not just liking something.
- Identify whether the urge is internal or situational.
- Distinguish temptation from mere curiosity or preference.
- Practice with realistic scenarios in health, finances, and time management.
- Use sentences with resist/give in to temptation to build fluency.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'temptation'?
A.Strong feeling of disgust
B.Time of great success
C.Happy and excited state
D.Desire to do something, especially something wrong or unwise
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'temptation' used correctly?
A.She felt temptation when she won the award.
B.He avoided temptation by eating healthy.
C.They resisted the temptation to go out on a rainy day.
D.The temptation of the new video game was too strong.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'temptation'?
A.Fear
B.Courage
C.Seduction
D.Happiness
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite meaning of 'temptation'?
A.Health
B.Resistance
C.Honesty
D.Gift
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life situation where 'temptation' plays a role?
A.Volunteering at a local shelter
B.Studying hard for an exam
C.Going on a diet and avoiding unhealthy snacks
D.Running a marathon
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