an indulgence on my part

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an indulgence on my part" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when acknowledging a personal leniency or allowance in a situation, often implying a concession or forgiveness. Example: "I realize that my late response was an indulgence on my part, and I appreciate your patience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Books

Music

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

I've often wondered if this isn't an indulgence on my part, and whether I should train myself to cope with more human interaction − but I fear Auden's characterisation of poetry ("The social act of the solitary man") applies still better to novelising, which requires its practitioner to listen very intently so as to hear the voices and thoughts of wholly inexistent beings.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

That was an error on my part.

The New York Times

"That was a misjudgment on my part.

The New York Times

It was a spasm on my part".

The Guardian - Books

"That was a miswording on my part".

Los Angeles Times

That's a mistake on my part.

Los Angeles Times

That was a mistake on my part.

HuffPost

A cruel thought on my part.

The New York Times

Always a wise move on my part.

The New York Times

If it's touching to hear one of the most successful artists of all time momentarily reduced to gasping fanboy, the album works because it feels like a partnership, rather than an indulgence on John's part or an act of gratitude on Russell's.

The Guardian - Music

A small capital investment on my part.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an indulgence on my part" when admitting to allowing yourself something that might be seen as unnecessary or excessive. This phrase is best suited for reflective or apologetic contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "an indulgence on my part" in highly formal or professional communications, as it can sound too casual. Opt for more direct and professional language to convey responsibility or error.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an indulgence on my part" functions as a way to acknowledge a personal action or decision that might be considered self-gratifying or unnecessary. It often implies a slight apologetic or reflective tone, recognizing that the action was perhaps excessive but still chosen.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Books

25%

Music

15%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an indulgence on my part" is a phrase used to acknowledge a self-granted allowance or action, often implying a touch of excess or leniency. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and appears predominantly in News & Media. While appropriate for neutral or informal settings, it may be too casual for strictly formal contexts. Related phrases include "a personal treat" or "something I allowed myself". Using the phrase judiciously adds a touch of self-awareness to your writing, acknowledging personal choices without overstating the significance of the action.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a fault of my own

Focuses on taking responsibility for an error or mistake.

a weakness of mine

Highlights a personal failing or susceptibility.

a self-granted allowance

Emphasizes the act of permitting something for oneself.

a personal failing

Directly points to a shortcoming or defect in one's character.

a lapse in judgment

Highlights a temporary error in decision-making.

a self-indulgent act

Emphasizes the characteristic of being self-indulgent.

something I allowed myself

Highlights a personal concession or permission.

a moment of weakness for me

Focuses on a brief period of lowered resistance or vulnerability.

a personal concession

Highlights the act of yielding or granting something to oneself.

a small act of self-care

Highlights a positive act of prioritizing one's well-being.

FAQs

How can I use "an indulgence on my part" in a sentence?

You can use "an indulgence on my part" to acknowledge you've allowed yourself something perhaps unnecessary. For example: "The extra dessert was "an indulgence on my part", but I enjoyed it."

What is a similar expression to "an indulgence on my part"?

Similar expressions include "a personal treat", "something I allowed myself", or "a small luxury". These phrases all imply a deliberate act of self-gratification.

Is it appropriate to use "an indulgence on my part" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "an indulgence on my part" might be too casual for formal writing. Consider alternatives like "a personal allowance" or "a moment of weakness" for a more professional tone.

What's the difference between "an indulgence on my part" and "a mistake on my part"?

"An indulgence on my part" suggests a deliberate act of self-gratification, while "a mistake on my part" acknowledges an error or oversight. The former is intentional; the latter is not.