The phrase "make a dent in a problem" means to make progress in solving a difficult issue or obstacle. There are various synonyms that can be used to express this idea more creatively or with more specific connotations. For instance, some alternatives for "make a dent" include "chip away at," "whittle down," "tackle," "confront," "address," "reduce," "alleviate," "mitigate," "contain," "curb," "lessen," "diminish," "transform," "overcome," and "eradicate." Depending on the context, these synonyms can add different nuances to the notion of making progress, such as emphasizing the persistence, resourcefulness, urgency, or effectiveness of the action.