make a dent in

Idioms  

1. Begin to accomplish or consume something, as in I've barely made a dent in this pile of correspondence, or Help us put a dent in this pie. This metaphoric expression alludes to striking a blow to make a physical indentation in something.

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Example Sentences

Murphy’s fellow representative, Democrat Zac Ista, told ProPublica he hadn’t been able to make a dent in this legislature.

From Salon • Jun. 8, 2026

Wall Street analysts have generally pointed to mid-2027 as the earliest point that increased supply could make a dent in high demand driven by artificial intelligence.

From Barron's • Jun. 4, 2026

Spending on artificial intelligence would need to fall off significantly to make a dent in the industry’s current pricing power.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 6, 2026

Councils already have the power to issue on the spot penalties of £150 for littering, and the uplift is unlikely to make a dent in super sites which can cost millions to clean up.

From BBC • Mar. 18, 2026

Admittedly, fifty thousand would hardly make a dent in the tuition, but maybe I could get a scholarship.

From "Turtles All the Way Down" by John Green