What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
decoy
Example
The hunters set up a decoy duck to attract real ducks. [decoy: noun]
Example
The spy used a decoy car to trick the enemy agents. [decoy: adjective]
lure
Example
The fisherman used a worm as a lure to catch a big fish. [lure: noun]
Example
The company offered a high salary to lure the talented employee. [lure: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Lure is more commonly used than decoy in everyday language. Lure is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while decoy is less common and often associated with hunting or military contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between decoy and lure?
Both decoy and lure can be used in formal and informal contexts, but decoy may be perceived as more technical or specialized due to its association with hunting or military tactics.
