What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
intrigue
Example
The detective was intrigued by the strange clues at the crime scene. [intrigued: verb]
Example
The movie had an intriguing plot that kept the audience guessing until the end. [intriguing: adjective]
entice
Example
The smell of fresh-baked cookies enticed the children into the kitchen. [enticed: verb]
Example
The new job offer was too good to resist and enticed her to leave her current position. [enticing: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Entice is more commonly used than intrigue in everyday language. Entice is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while intrigue is less common and refers to a more specific sense of fascination or mystery.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between intrigue and entice?
Both intrigue and entice can be used in formal and informal contexts, but intrigue may be associated with a more intellectual or sophisticated tone, while entice may be associated with a more persuasive or marketing-oriented tone.