Make a dent in Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To have a noticeable effect on something, especially when reducing the size or amount of it. Usually used when progress is made, but much work still remains.
Usage & Nuances
This is an informal idiom often used to talk about tasks, work, debts, or large quantities. Commonly paired with words like 'problem', 'debt', 'pile', or 'workload'. It means you have started to make progress but haven’t finished. Don’t use for physical 'denting' only—it's figurative here.
Example Sentences
I saved some money, but it didn’t make a dent in my debts.
basic
We worked all morning but barely made a dent in the pile of laundry.
basic
She donated clothes, but it hardly made a dent in her closet.
basic
No matter how much I clean, I can’t make a dent in this mess!
natural
We’ve eaten a lot, but we haven’t even made a dent in the pizza.
natural
All that effort only made a dent in the problem, but it’s a start.
natural