Question

Use context clues to determine the meaning of the word indulges as it is used in paragraph 9 of the Point essay. Write your definition of indulges here and explain how you figured it out.

Answer 1

I don’t have paragraph 9 of the Point essay here. Based on how "indulges" is commonly used in context, though, a good definition is:

indulges (verb) — allows oneself to enjoy or give in to a desire or pleasure (often something slightly excessive or not strictly necessary).

How I figured that out (how to use context clues):
- Look for nearby words that point to pleasure, reward, or allowance (words like “treat,” “enjoy,” “gives in,” “surrenders,” “pampered,” or examples of the action).
- Check for contrast with restraint words (e.g., “instead of denying,” “rather than resisting”), which signals yielding.
- Note tone: a positive/pleasurable description supports “enjoys,” while a critical tone can emphasize excess.
- Substitute the definition into the sentence to see if it makes sense: if “allows himself to enjoy” fits smoothly, it’s correct.

If you paste paragraph 9 I can give a definition tied exactly to that sentence.