How to Pronounce "make a dent in"
expression
ˈmeɪk/ /ˈeɪ/, /ə/ /ˈdɛnt/ /ˈɪn/, /ɪn
MAYK-uh-DENT-in
mˈeɪk/ /æɪ/ /dˈɛnt/ /ˈɪn
MAYK-uh-DENT-in
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.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈmeɪk/ /ˈeɪ/, /ə/ /ˈdɛnt/ /ˈɪn/, /ɪn
British English
mˈeɪk/ /æɪ/ /dˈɛnt/ /ˈɪn
Simplified Pronunciation
US
MAYK-uh-DENT-in
UK
MAYK-uh-DENT-in
Listen in Context
I saved some money, but it didn’t make a dent in my debts.
We worked all morning but barely made a dent in the pile of laundry.
She donated clothes, but it hardly made a dent in her closet.
No matter how much I clean, I can’t make a dent in this mess!