/dɛnt/
Dent (noun): A slight hollow in a hard, even surface made by a blow or pressure.
Dent (verb): To make a dent in something; to cause a surface to become indented.
The word "dent" is commonly used in both oral and written contexts. It can refer to physical impacts, like those made on cars or other objects. It can also be used metaphorically to indicate diminishment or reduction (e.g., "dent in the budget").
The term "dent" is frequently used in everyday conversation, particularly in discussing automotive damage or minor injuries. It is also encountered in written English, especially in technical contexts or discussions regarding repair work.
The car had a small dent in the rear door after the accident.
Машина имела небольшую вмятину на двери после аварии.
She accidentally made a dent on the table while moving furniture.
Она случайно сделала вмятину на столе, когда переставляла мебель.
The company's profits took a dent due to the economic downturn.
Прибыль компании снизилась из-за экономического спада.
"Dent" is not widely used in idiomatic expressions, but it can be involved in idioms referring to diminishing effects or impacts. Here are some examples:
Translation: Сделать вклад в выполнение объема работы.
“He made a dent in her confidence.”
Translation: Он подорвал её уверенность.
“Every little dent helps to lighten the load.”
Translation: Каждая небольшая вмятина помогает облегчить бремя.
“The news made a dent in the public's trust.”
The word "dent" comes from the Latin word dentare, which means "tooth," and is related to the word "tooth" because a dent resembles a mark made by a tooth or similar object. The term has been in use in English since the 15th century.
Synonyms: - Indentation - Hollow - Dimple
Antonyms: - Protrusion - Bulge - Elevation