tentar (spanish) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

Verb

Phonetic Transcription

/tẽnˈtaɾ/

Translation Options into English

• To tempt
• To try
• To attempt

Meaning and Usage

The verb "tentar" in Spanish is primarily used to express the act of tempting someone or trying to provoke a particular action or emotion. It can be used in various contexts, such as inviting someone to do something or luring them into a certain behavior. Often, "tentar" implies a sense of allure or enticement, especially concerning moral or ethical choices.

Frequency of Use

"Tentar" is commonly used in both oral and written contexts but may appear more in storytelling, discussions about morality, or scenarios involving persuasion.

Example Sentences

1. Tentar a la suerte nunca es una buena idea.

2. Tempting fate is never a good idea.

3. Ella intentó tentar a su amigo con una oferta irresistible.

4. She tried to tempt her friend with an irresistible offer.

5. No dejes que nadie te intente tentar a hacer algo peligroso.

6. Don't let anyone tempt you into doing something dangerous.

Idiomatic Expressions

"Tentar" is frequently employed in idiomatic expressions in Spanish, often related to moral dilemmas or temptations. Here are some examples:

1. Tentar a la suerte
2. This expression means "to tempt fate."
3. No debes tentar a la suerte y jugar con el destino.

4. You shouldn't tempt fate and play with destiny.

5. No hay que tentar al diablo

6. This expression translates to "don't tempt the devil."
7. Es mejor ser precavido; no hay que tentar al diablo.

8. It's better to be cautious; you shouldn't tempt the devil.

9. Tentar la suerte en el juego

10. This translates to "to tempt fate in gambling."
11. Algunas personas aman tentar la suerte en el juego, pero puede ser arriesgado.

12. Some people love to tempt fate in gambling, but it can be risky.

13. Tentar a la tentación

14. Meaning "to tempt temptation."
15. No deberíamos tentar a la tentación si queremos mantener nuestros principios.
16. We shouldn't tempt temptation if we want to uphold our principles.

Etymology

The word "tentar" derives from the Latin verb "tentare," which also means "to try" or "to touch." It has evolved in the Spanish language to encompass meanings related to both testing and tempting.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Provocar (to provoke) - Atraer (to attract) - Intentar (to attempt)

Antonyms: - Desalentar (to discourage) - Rechazar (to reject) - Descartar (to dismiss)