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unwiderstehlich
irresistible
So attractive, tempting, or charming that one cannot resist.
example
Das Schokoladendessert sah einfach unwiderstehlich aus.
The chocolate dessert looked simply irresistible.
unwiderstehlich
irresistible
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word structure
The word is built logically: the prefix 'un-' means 'not,' the verb 'widerstehen' means to resist or stand against something, and the ending '-lich' turns it into an adjective. Literally, it therefore means 'not to be resisted.'
EXAMPLE
Er konnte dem unwiderstehlichen Angebot nicht widerstehen.
He could not resist the irresistible offer.
Typical collocations
In the meaning 'tempting,' the adjective is often combined with things that appeal to the senses or desires. Typical examples are: 'ein unwiderstehliches Lächeln' (an irresistible smile), 'ein unwiderstehlicher Duft' (an irresistible scent), 'ein unwiderstehliches Angebot' (an irresistible offer).
EXAMPLE
Sie hatte einen unwiderstehlichen Charme.
She had an irresistible charm.
Typical collocations
When it describes a force that 'cannot be stopped,' it often appears with abstract nouns that refer to an inner impulse or an external power. Typical examples are: 'ein unwiderstehlicher Drang' (an irresistible urge), 'ein unwiderstehlicher Wunsch' (an irresistible desire), 'eine unwiderstehliche Kraft' (an irresistible force).
EXAMPLE
Er hatte den unwiderstehlichen Wunsch, die Wahrheit zu sagen.
He had the irresistible desire to tell the truth.
Compare with
unwiderstehlich vs attraktiv
attractive
'attraktiv' and 'unwiderstehlich' both describe something that has an appealing effect. 'attraktiv' is more general and calmer: something looks good or has advantages. 'unwiderstehlich' is much stronger. It means that something is so charming or tempting that you can hardly say no. That is why 'unwiderstehlich' often sounds more emotional or enthusiastic. An offer can be attractive because it has good conditions. A smell, a smile, or a dessert can be irresistible if it immediately draws you in.
unwiderstehlich
Der frische Duft aus der Bäckerei ist für uns einfach unwiderstehlich.
The fresh smell from the bakery is simply irresistible to us.
attraktiv
Nach dem Gespräch fand mein Kollege den neuen Laptop besonders attraktiv.
After the conversation, my colleague found the new laptop especially attractive.
In real life
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