Tantalize vs. tempt: what’s the difference?
The short answer
The word tantalize implies prolonged teasing or provoking with something desirable but unattainable, often causing frustration. Tempt suggests causing a desire or an urge to do something, especially something considered wrong or unwise, without the necessity of prolonging it or making it unattainable.
What they have in common
Both tantalize and tempt refer to actions that entice or allure someone or something, often causing desire or curiosity.
Examples
tantalize
- The aroma from the bakery tantalized us as we walked by.
- He tantalized his friend with tales of his luxurious travels.
- The promise of a distant future prize tantalized the contestants.
tempt
- The smell of fresh bread tempted her to stop at the bakery.
- The shiny new phone tempted him to spend more than he had budgeted.
- She was tempted to skip her workout and watch TV instead.
Which one is more common?
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