amicable
AM-ih-kuh-bul
/ˈæmɪkəbl/
Characterized by friendliness and goodwill; without serious disagreement or rancor.
Usually describes relations, agreements, or divorces between people who might otherwise be expected to fight, but choose to remain polite and friendly.
The story behind the word. Derived from the Latin word 'amicus', meaning friend. It shares this root with 'amigo' in Spanish and 'ami' in French. It is the linguistic opposite of 'inimical' (unfriendly/hostile).
Word relationships
- amiable: Amiable describes a pleasant, friendly person, whereas amicable describes a friendly, cooperative relationship or agreement between people.
- hostile: Hostile describes an unfriendly, aggressive, or antagonistic relationship or attitude.
Commonly confused with
- amiable: Amiable refers to a person's sweet disposition, while amicable refers to a peaceful arrangement or relationship.
Word family
- amicably (adverb): In a friendly and peaceable manner.
Collocations
- amicable settlement
- amicable divorce
- amicable relationship
Example sentences
- "Despite their differences, the business partners reached an amicable split." Business Relations
- "The lawsuit was settled in an amicable manner, avoiding a lengthy trial." Legal Settlements
Memory hook
Amicable: Sounds like 'amigo-able'—able to be friendly like an amigo. Friendly like an amigo.
When not to use
Do not use to describe a warm, bubbly best friend (use 'amiable' instead); 'amicable' describes a peaceful, polite relationship between parties.
Fun facts
- The word 'enemy' actually comes from the same root: Latin 'inimicus' (not a friend), showing how closely related friendship and hostility are in language.
Also appears in
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