Indulge
/ɪnˈdʌldʒ/
verbB2
Definition
Indulge means to let yourself or others have or enjoy something, especially something that feels good but might not be very healthy or needed. It can also mean to give in to a wish or desire, like eating a sweet treat or relaxing instead of working.
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See It in Action
To allow oneself to enjoy something pleasurable
- •She decided to indulge in a piece of chocolate after dinner.
- •On weekends, he likes to indulge by watching movies all day.
- •They indulged themselves with a spa day for relaxation.
To give in to a desire or wish, sometimes too much
- •Parents sometimes indulge their children with extra toys.
- •He indulged his love of books by buying many new novels.
Make It Stick
- ✓Think of "indulge" like "enjoy" (A2 word), but with the idea that you allow yourself a special treat or pleasure, sometimes more than usual
- ✓Picture someone eating a big chocolate cake happily, even if they usually eat healthy food
- ✓It's the feeling when you decide to watch your favorite movie all day, ignoring other tasks
- ✓Sounds like "in-DULGE" → imagine someone pulling a big, soft blanket close and relaxing fully, giving in to comfort
- ✓Think of a story where a character breaks their normal rules to enjoy something special, like a holiday feast
- ✓NOT like "need" (something necessary), indulge is about choice and pleasure, not necessity
- ✓NOT like "force" (make happen), indulge is a gentle, willing action you do for yourself or others
- ✓NOT like "work" or "study," indulge is about taking a break or enjoying something fun or tasty
Try Other Words
- •Treat oneself: to do something special for pleasure (Use when focusing on giving yourself a special reward)
- •Satisfy: to fulfill a desire or need (Use when emphasizing meeting a wish or craving)
- •Pamper: to take care of oneself or others with extra kindness or luxury (Use when focusing on comfort and care)
Unboxing
- •Word parts: prefix "in-" (into, within) + root "dulge" (related to giving or allowing)
- •Etymology: From Latin "indulgere," meaning to be kind or lenient, to give in or allow
- •Historical development: Originally meant to be kind or lenient, later evolved to mean allowing oneself pleasure or desires
- •Modern usage: Commonly used to talk about allowing oneself or others to enjoy pleasures, often in food, rest, or luxury
- •Key insight: The word focuses on permission and enjoyment, often with a sense of specialness or extra care
Reflect & Connect
•When is it good to indulge yourself, and when can it become a problem?
•How does the idea of indulging differ between cultures or families you know?
Fill in the blanks
1.People often indulge ___ sweets or snacks when they feel stressed or tired.
2.She decided to indulge herself ___ a day off after working hard all week.
3.Unlike regular enjoyment, to indulge means you ___ permission to do something special.
4.Parents sometimes indulge their children by ___ them extra gifts or treats.
5.When you indulge too much, it can lead to ___ feelings like guilt or discomfort.
6.To indulge in hobbies means to spend time ___ something you really like.
7.He didn’t just enjoy the meal; he indulged ___ every bite with pleasure.