WordValeindulge
to allow oneself a pleasure
In more detail
1. (verb) to allow yourself to have or do something that you enjoy, usually something you don't normally allow yourself
2. (verb) to let someone have or do what they want, even if it is not good for them
Examples
- 1. I indulged in a piece of chocolate cake after dinner.
- 2. She indulges her children too much and they don't listen to her.
How to use indulge
Indulge is used when allowing oneself or someone else to have something pleasurable or desired, often with a sense of relaxation or temporarily abandoning restraint. The first sense (indulge yourself) is neutral and commonly used in everyday contexts; the second sense (indulge someone) can carry a mild disapproving tone, suggesting you are being too permissive or lenient, particularly with children.
Common phrases
- indulge yourself
- indulge in
- indulge a desire
- indulge a whim
- indulge someone's wishes
Synonyms
gratify · satisfy · treat yourself · give in to · pamper
Opposites
deny · refuse · abstain
Word family
indulgence (noun) · indulgent (adjective) · indulgently (adverb)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes use indulge as a transitive verb without a preposition when the object is an abstract desire or activity (e.g., 'indulge chocolate' instead of 'indulge in chocolate'), or confuse it with the noun indulgence when a verb is required.
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