“Tempt” vs. “Seduce”: What’s the Difference?

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The difference between “tempt” and “seduce”

  • Temptation typically involves encouraging someone to do something they know is wrong or don't want to do, while seduction usually involves winning someone over to a specific desired outcome.
  • Temptation often relies on the appeal of forbidden or taboo actions or temptations, whereas seduction typically involves more emotional appeals or persuasive techniques.
  • Temptation and seduction can both involve manipulation, but seduction is often seen as a more deliberate and strategic approach toward a certain target, while temptation can be elicited from an inanimate object.
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What is the definition of “tempt” and “seduce”?

Tempt
  • To entice or persuade someone to do something they know they shouldn't do.
  • It can also mean to lead someone astray or to test their morals or willpower.
  • Temptation often involves something forbidden or indulgent.
Seduce
  • To lure or attract someone, often with the intention of persuading them to have a romantic relationship.
  • It can also mean to charm or enchant someone in a way that is persuasive or manipulative.
  • Seduction is often associated with a more deliberate and calculated approach than temptation.

Which is the more popular variant on the Internet?

“Seduce” is the more popular variant on the web.
Tempt
30,900,000 results on the web
Examples
  1. The smell of fresh cookies being baked tempted me to abandon my diet.
  2. The offer of double the salary tempted me to accept the job offer.
  3. I was tempted to spoil the ending for my friend who hadn't watched the movie yet.
More popular
Seduce
86,700,000 results on the web
Examples
  1. The smooth-talking stranger at the bar tried to seduce me with compliments and drinks.
  2. I heard a rumor that she seduces wealthy men and gets them to buy her luxury goods.
  3. The delicious aroma of the sizzling steak seduced me into ordering more than I could eat.
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