What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
attractant
Example
The garden was sprayed with an attractant to draw in butterflies. [attractant: noun]
Example
The attractant in the trap successfully lured the mosquitoes away from the picnic area. [attractant: adjective]
lure
Example
The shiny lure on the fishing line caught the attention of the fish. [lure: noun]
Example
The company used a special offer as a lure to attract new customers. [lure: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Lure is more commonly used than attractant in everyday language. Lure is a versatile word that can be applied to different contexts, making it more commonly used in casual conversations and writing. Attractant, on the other hand, is more specific and technical, and is commonly used in scientific or specialized discussions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between attractant and lure?
While attractant is more formal and technical, lure is more informal and commonly used in everyday language. Attractant is often used in scientific or technical contexts, while lure can be employed in both formal and informal situations, allowing for a wider range of usage.