Translation guide
The English verb "tempt" covers a range of meanings from enticing someone to do something (often unwise) to testing someone's resolve. Japanese expresses these ideas through different verbs and phrases depending on the nuance.
To make someone want to do something, especially something they should not do, by making it seem attractive.
The most direct equivalent for 'tempt' in the sense of enticing someone into wrongdoing or indulgence. Often used for temptations like food, spending, or moral lapses.
He tempted her with sweet words.
Even though I'm on a diet, I was tempted by the cake.
A very common and natural way to express being tempted to do something. Literally 'become wanting to do ~'. Used for everyday temptations.
When I see a new smartphone, I'm tempted to buy it right away.
After hearing his story, I was tempted to go on a trip.
To make someone feel like doing something, often used when someone or something arouses a desire or inclination.
His enthusiasm tempted me to study.
To tempt or entice someone into doing something bad or wrong, often with a nuance of instigation or persuasion. Stronger and more negative than 誘惑する.
Tempted by my friend, I ended up shoplifting.
To challenge or test someone's self-control, luck, or destiny, often by doing something risky.
To describe something that attracts or appeals strongly, often making someone want to have or do it.
Used when something stimulates a desire or appetite. Common with food, curiosity, etc. Often in the form 食欲をそそる (whet one's appetite).
The aroma tempted my appetite.
His words tempted my curiosity.
Simply means 'attractive' or 'tempting'. A general way to say something is appealing.
The offer is very tempting.
While 誘惑する is the dictionary translation, it often sounds too strong or formal for everyday temptations. For casual situations, ～したくなる or そそる are more natural.
誘惑する is a general term for tempting, often with a nuance of seduction or allure. そそのかす implies actively persuading someone to do something bad, and is more negative.
I'm tempted to eat the whole cake.
Don't tempt me with chocolate.