indulgence Definition
- 1the act of allowing yourself or someone else to have something enjoyable, especially more than is good for you
- 2an occasion when you allow someone or yourself to have something enjoyable, especially more than is good for you
Using indulgence: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "indulgence" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
She has a weakness for chocolate and often gives in to indulgence.
Example
He allowed himself the indulgence of sleeping late on the weekends.
Example
The spa offers various indulgences like massages and facials.
Example
I couldn't resist the indulgence of buying a new pair of shoes.
indulgence Synonyms and Antonyms
Antonyms for indulgence
- abstinence
- self-denial
Idioms Using indulgence
to allow oneself to do or have whatever one wants, without restraint or control
Example
On vacation, she gave free rein to her indulgences, eating and drinking whatever she pleased.
an indulgence of the senses
an experience that provides great pleasure to the senses, such as a delicious meal or beautiful scenery
Example
The trip to the vineyard was an indulgence of the senses, with the stunning views and exquisite wines.
an indulgence of luxury
an experience that involves the enjoyment of expensive or luxurious things
Example
The five-star hotel was an indulgence of luxury, with its plush bedding and gourmet meals.
Phrases with indulgence
something that you enjoy doing or having, but feel guilty about because you know it is not good for you
Example
Eating ice cream every night is my guilty indulgence.
the act of allowing yourself to have or do something that you enjoy, especially more than is good for you
Example
His indulgence in alcohol led to his downfall.
an indulgence for someone
an act of kindness or generosity towards someone, often involving allowing them to have or do something they want
Example
Her father's indulgence for her was evident in the way he always gave her what she wanted.
Origins of indulgence
from Latin 'indulgentia', meaning 'a giving in to' or 'indulging'
Summary: indulgence in Brief
The term 'indulgence' [ɪnˈdʌldʒəns] refers to the act of allowing oneself or others to have something enjoyable, often in excess. It can be a guilty pleasure, as in 'Eating ice cream every night is my guilty indulgence,' or an act of generosity, as in 'Her father's indulgence for her was evident in the way he always gave her what she wanted.' 'Indulgence' extends into idioms like 'give free rein to one's indulgences,' implying a lack of restraint, and 'an indulgence of luxury,' suggesting the enjoyment of expensive or luxurious things.
