Cool MateIndulge
UK /["/ɪnˈdʌldʒ/","/ɪnˈdʌldʒɪz/","/ɪnˈdʌldʒd/","/ɪnˈdʌldʒɪŋ/"]/US /["/ɪnˈdʌldʒ/","/ɪnˈdʌldʒɪz/","/ɪnˈdʌldʒd/","/ɪnˈdʌldʒɪŋ/"]/
Definition
to allow yourself to have or do something that you like, especially something that is considered bad for you
In simple words: To allow yourself to enjoy something you like.
Examples
- They went into town to indulge in some serious shopping.
- She has never been one to indulge in gossip.
- He was free to indulge in a little romantic daydreaming.
- I indulged myself with a long hot bath.
- For a special treat, indulge yourself with one of these luxury desserts.
- The inheritance enabled him to indulge his passion for art.
- In the closing lines, the poet indulges his sense of irony.
- She did not believe in indulging the children with presents.
- His questions were annoying but it was easier to indulge him than try and protest.
- Her father had always **indulged her every whim**.
Usage notes
Use 'indulge' when talking about enjoying special treats or activities, often with a sense of excess. It fits in neutral contexts; avoid in formal writing.
Grammar pattern
indulge + object
Memory hint
Think of 'in-dulge' like diving into a pool of chocolate!
Collocations
- occasionally
- freely
- be able to
- be free to
- can
- in
- with
- occasionally
- freely
- be able to
- be free to
- can
- in
- with
- occasionally
- freely
- be able to
- be free to
- can
- in
- with
- occasionally
- freely
- be able to
- be free to
- can
- in
- with
Synonyms
- savor
- enjoy
- gratify
- luxuriate
- pamper
Antonyms
- restrain
- deny
- deprive
Common mistakes
- Confusing 'indulge' with 'indulged' (past tense)
- Using 'indulge in' without an object
- Saying 'indulge to' instead of 'indulge in'