Basic Details
Word: Indent
Part of Speech: Verb / Noun
Meaning:
As a verb: To start a line of text further from the margin than the main part of the text.
As a noun: A space left at the beginning of a line of text; also a formal order or request, especially for goods.
Synonyms: Indentation, order, request, notch
Antonyms: Align, flush, ignore, supply (for noun usage)
Idioms and Phrases
- Indent the line: Commonly used in writing and formatting to mean starting a line with a space. Example: "Please indent the first line of each paragraph."
- Place an indent: To submit a formal request for goods or services. Example: "The store manager placed an indent for 200 new notebooks."
Usage Examples
Example 1: You should indent the first line of each paragraph in your essay.
Example 2: The purchasing officer sent an indent for new lab equipment.
Example 3: Make sure to indent properly when writing code to improve readability.
Fun Fact
The term "indent" comes from the Medieval Latin word *indentare*, which means "to notch or dent." In the past, contracts were made in duplicate on the same sheet and separated by a jagged line or "indentation."
Famous Quote
"A paragraph should always begin with an indent, just as a thought begins with intention." - Anonymous
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "indent" mean when used in writing?
a) Erase the text
b) Capitalize the sentence
c) Start a line of text further from the margin
d) End the paragraph abruptly
Answer: c) Start a line of text further from the margin
2. Which of these is a synonym of "indent"?
a) Erasure
b) Order
c) Alignment
d) Boredom
Answer: b) Order
3. What is an antonym of "indent" in formatting?
a) Flush
b) Notch
c) Curve
d) Start
Answer: a) Flush
4. Which sentence uses "indent" correctly?
a) We indent the grass before cutting it.
b) You should indent the first line of each paragraph.
c) She indent her breakfast every morning.
d) The room indent with laughter.
Answer: b) You should indent the first line of each paragraph.
5. What does the phrase "place an indent" typically refer to?
a) Remove an item
b) Make a formal request for goods
c) Cancel a meeting
d) Rearrange furniture
Answer: b) Make a formal request for goods
