lure

word

/ˈɫʊɹ/
loor
/lˈɔː/
law

Definition

To attract or tempt someone or something, often to do something they should not, or a thing (like bait) used to attract animals, especially in fishing.

Usage & Nuances

As a verb, usually means attracting someone to do something they might not otherwise do, often for negative reasons. As a noun, mostly used for fishing ('fishing lure') or metaphorically as an attractive temptation. Common collocations: 'lure into', 'the lure of', 'lure away'. Often formal or neutral.

Example Sentences

Fishermen use a lure to catch fish.

basic

The promise of easy money can lure people into danger.

basic

She tried to lure the cat with some food.

basic

Don't let flashy ads lure you into buying things you don't need.

natural

The lure of adventure was too strong for him to resist.

natural

He tried to lure customers away from his competitor with special offers.

natural