dent
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
n.a small hollow place in the surface of something hard, usually caused by being hit.
n.a shallow deformation or indentation in a surface, typically resulting from a physical impact.
Simple“There was a small dent in the car door where a shopping cart had hit it.”
In context“The hail storm was severe enough to leave several noticeable dents in the aluminium siding of the warehouse.”
- 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
n.a reduction in the amount of something, or a negative effect on your progress or feelings.
n.a significant but usually partial reduction in amount, progress, or confidence, often caused by an external factor.
Simple“The expensive repair bill made a big dent in my savings this month.”
In context“Despite the aggressive marketing campaign, the new competitor failed to make a significant dent in the company's market share.”
- 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
v.to make something like pride or confidence less strong.
v.to diminish or weaken something abstract, such as pride, reputation, or confidence.
Simple“Failing the driving test really dented his confidence for a few weeks.”
In context“The scandal did not just hurt the politician's popularity; it permanently dented his reputation among younger voters.”
Antonyms
“In addition, the laptop wouldn’t go to sleep when its lid was closed, which put a pretty good dent in the battery life.”