Indentation: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to the space or tab used at the beginning of a line of text in documents or code to signal structure or hierarchy.

• The code readability improved significantly after proper indentation was applied.
• In your essay, make sure each paragraph begins with an indentation to show the separation of ideas.

Appropriate when discussing the positioning of text or elements in a line, either horizontally or vertically, in documents or design projects.

• Ensure all the text in your report has left alignment for a cleaner look.
• The designer adjusted the alignment of the images to be centered on the page.

Commonly used when referring to the overall design and arrangement of text, including font style, size, color, etc., in documents and visual media.

• The formatting of your resume plays a crucial role in making it look professional.
• Incorrect formatting can often detract from the readability of a document.

Refers to the amount of space between characters, lines, or paragraphs in a text or document.

• Double spacing between lines makes the text easier to read.
• Adjust the spacing between paragraphs to give a more neat appearance.

Appropriate for formatting text, lists, or code to create a clear hierarchy or structure.

• Remember to maintain consistent indentation in your code to improve readability
• Use indentation to start new paragraphs in a formal document

Commonly used to describe a small dent or depression on a surface, or a notch in text formatting.

• The carpenter noticed an indentation in the wooden table.
• Make sure to add an indentation at the beginning of each paragraph.

Describes a narrow body of water between islands or leading inland from a larger body of water, often used in geography.

• The small boat navigated through the narrow inlet.
• There is an inlet near the house where the tide comes in each morning.

Refers to a small, sheltered bay or coastal inlet, often with restricted entrance or formed between cliffs.

• We discovered a secluded cove with crystal clear water.
• The cove provided a perfect spot for swimming and snorkeling.

Used to describe a broad, curved inlet of a sea or lake where the land forms a wide arc.

• They spent the weekend sailing around the bay.
• The city is known for its beautiful bay views.