B2nounemotionspsychology
US/tempˈteɪ.ʃən/
UK/tempˈteɪ.ʃən/
a strong wish to do or have something, especially something you know is bad for you
In context
I couldn't resist the temptation to check my phone during the lesson.
Street food stalls are a big temptation when you're on a diet.
There's always a temptation to spend your bonus all at once.
Words that go with temptation
verb + noun
- resist the temptationTry to resist the temptation to eat snacks late at night.
verb + preposition
- give in to temptationI gave in to temptation and bought the new shoes.
adjective + noun
- strong temptationThere's a strong temptation to copy answers from the internet.
- great temptationCheap flights are a great temptation for young travelers.
noun + preposition
- temptation toAvoid the temptation to reply when you are angry.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
I can't resist the temptation of eating sweets.Correct: I can't resist the temptation to eat sweets.