seduce
suh-DOOSS
/sɪˈdjuːs/
To entice someone to do something unwise or to have sexual relations; to attract powerfully.
Implies a tempting 'leading away' from the correct or intended path.
The story behind the word. From Latin 'seducere', meaning 'to lead aside'. It literally means to lead someone away from their duties, their path, or their principles.
Word relationships
- entice: 'Entice' is broader and less sexual; 'seduce' has a stronger connotation of leading astray.
- lure: 'Lure' suggests a trap; 'seduce' suggests a psychological attraction.
- repel: To drive away rather than leading someone toward you.
Commonly confused with
- persuade: Persuade uses logic or reason; seduce uses desire or charm.
Word family
- seduction (noun): The action of seducing someone.
- seductive (adjective): Tempting and attractive; enticing.
Collocations
- seduced by power
- seduce the audience
- attempt to seduce
Example sentences
- "The promise of easy money can seduce even the most honest people into crime." Literature
Memory hook
Seduce is to lead 'aSide' (Se). Lead aside from the path.
When not to use
Avoid using in strictly professional contexts unless referring to metaphorical temptation (e.g., 'seduced by high profits').
Fun facts
- The prefix 'se-' also appears in 'separate' and 'secede', all involving the idea of being 'apart' or 'aside'.
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