indulgent - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
indulgent Word Meanings
- willing to allow excessive pleasure or satisfaction
- lenient or permissive in behavior
- showing a tendency to be generous or yielding
indulgent Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
indulgent Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪnˈdʌl.dʒənt/
US
/ɪnˈdʌl.dʒənt/
indulgent Word Etymology
indulgent = in- (not) + dulge (to yield) + -ent (characterized by); Origin: Latin 'indulgentem' → Old French 'indulgent' → English; Memory: Imagine a pampering parent who always gives in to their child's wishes, allowing indulgent behavior and excessive sweets.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Indulgent means willing to allow excessive pleasure or satisfaction and can describe a lenient or permissive behavior or a tendency to be generous and yielding. In everyday use it often carries a soft tone with hints of critique as when a parent spoils a child or a manager hesitates to say no. It is not about strict discipline but about a tendency to relax limits or rules sometimes to a fault. When you hear the word indulgent expect warmth and generosity but also be aware of the risk of encouraging bad habits or spoiled behavior in others and yourself.
Usage Reminders
- - Indulgent can describe people, behavior, or attitudes toward rewards.
- - Don't confuse indulgent with strict or punitive.
- - Note the nuance of warmth plus potential spoiling.
- - Use with nouns like parent, gift, or treatment.
- - Pair with context to show whether the stance is positive or negative.
- - Stress the contrast with self discipline when needed.
Common Misconceptions
- Indulgent always means positive praise
- It is the same as lenient in all contexts
- It describes self discipline rather than giving in
- It only relates to food and rewards
- It is rare to see in professional writing
Thinking Differences
Indulgent is perceived as warm and generous in English, but it often carries a caveat about spoiling or lax boundaries; learners should watch for tone and context to avoid suggesting unconditional praise or blame.
Learning Tips
- Learn common collocations: indulgent toward, indulgent with, indulgent gesture.
- Compare indulgent with lenient to focus on nuance.
- Practice tone with family and work contexts.
- Notice how tone changes with gifts vs rules.
- Use in contrastive sentences to see how it shifts meaning.
- Record yourself saying sentences to hear warmth vs criticism.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'indulgent'?
A.Happy
B.Strict
C.Generous
D.Favorite
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'indulgent' used correctly?
A.The cat was happy when given treats.
B.The boss was strict with his employees' breaks.
C.The student had a favorite subject in school.
D.The teacher was indulgent with her homework policy.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym for 'indulgent'?
A.Generous
B.Harmful
C.Strict
D.Tolerant
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an opposite word for 'indulgent'?
A.Kind
B.Harsh
C.Favorable
D.Happy
Step 5: Mastery
In what scenario would someone be described as 'indulgent'?
A.Refusing to compromise in a negotiation
B.Ignoring all requests in a meeting
C.Giving in to a child's every demand
D.Following rules strictly without exception
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