Tantalizing

Adjective

Definition: Tormenting or teasing with the sight or promise of something unobtainable.

Synonyms: Teasing, Enticing, Alluring

Antonyms: Unappealing, Uninteresting, Repulsive

Examples:
  • The tantalizing aroma of freshly baked bread filled the kitchen, making everyone's mouths water.
  • The dress in the boutique's display window was tantalizingly beautiful, but the price tag was way beyond her budget.
Mnemonics:
  • Imagine being tantalized by a delicious dessert that you can't have.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "tantalizing" derives from the root word "Tantalus," a character in Greek mythology who was forever tormented with the sight of food and water just out of his reach in the underworld.

Historical Usage:

The word has been in use since the late 18th century and has retained its meaning of teasing or tormenting with unattainable desires.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Tantalize someone with something"

Explanation:

To torment or tempt someone by presenting something desirable that they cannot have or obtain.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "tantalizing" with "enticing" without the element of unattainability.

Explanation:

While both words suggest attraction or interest, "tantalizing" specifically implies teasing or tormenting with something out of reach.

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