Beguile vs. bewitch: what’s the difference?
The short answer
While beguile often emphasizes deception or trickery in its enchantment, bewitch typically conveys a sense of magical or supernatural influence, sometimes literally referring to witchcraft.
What they have in common
Both beguile and bewitch involve charming or enchanting someone, often in a deceptive or captivating manner. They can both imply leading someone astray or attracting them in an almost magical way.
Examples
beguile
- The conman used his charm to beguile the investors.
- She managed to beguile her classmates with an intricate tale.
- He was beguiled by her beauty and wit.
bewitch
- The fairy tale describes how the prince was bewitched by the sorceress.
- Her presence was so captivating, it seemed to bewitch everyone in the room.
- He felt as if he were bewitched by the alluring melody.
Which one is more common?
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