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Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective amicable contrast with its synonyms?

The words friendly and neighborly are common synonyms of amicable. While all three words mean "exhibiting goodwill and an absence of antagonism," amicable implies a state of peace and a desire on the part of the parties not to quarrel.

maintained amicable relations

When can friendly be used instead of amicable?

In some situations, the words friendly and amicable are roughly equivalent. However, friendly stresses cordiality and often warmth or intimacy of personal relations.

sought friendly advice

When is it sensible to use neighborly instead of amicable?

The synonyms neighborly and amicable are sometimes interchangeable, but neighborly implies a disposition to live on good terms with others and to be helpful on principle.

neighborly concern

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of amicable Nearly two years after the couple announced their amicable separation, Furness, 69, has filed for divorce from Jackman, 56, in New York. Raechal Shewfelt, EW.com, 28 May 2025 In speaking out in such a way, Furness let the world know that her divorce from Jackman has not been as amicable as the couple initially tried to portray it. Martha Ross, Mercury News, 4 June 2025 Both sides also described the discussions as amicable. Patrick Mooney, New York Times, 28 May 2025 While Townshend's post suggested an amicable split, Starkey struck a different tone in response at the time. Mekishana Pierre Updated, EW.com, 27 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for amicable
Recent Examples of Synonyms for amicable
Adjective
  • Fiserv's coin will also be compatible with the solana blockchain, a popular choice for stablecoin transactions thanks to its speed and low costs.
    MacKenzie Sigalos, CNBC, 23 June 2025
  • The Shiloh lamp is also compatible with dimmable light bulbs for a more customizable glow.
    Kate McGregor, Architectural Digest, 20 June 2025
Adjective
  • At Ligon Dental Group, the practice his family began in 1978, Dr. Ligon maintains uncompromising standards alongside a friendly demeanor.
    Jason Phillips, USA Today, 15 June 2025
  • Yes, at the end our decision was not to bring him to the friendly games.
    Paul Tenorio, New York Times, 15 June 2025
Adjective
  • In a unanimous decision, the justices ruled the Promoting Security and Justice for Victims of Terrorism Act (PSJVTA) does not violate the Palestinian Authority (PA) and Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO)’s due process rights by forcing them to consent to federal courts’ authority.
    Ella Lee, The Hill, 20 June 2025
  • The unanimous decision from the three-judge panel keeps a pause on a lower court’s temporary restraining order a week before that had directed the federal government to return control of Guard troops to Newsom.
    Daniel Hunt, Sacbee.com, 20 June 2025
Adjective
  • Concrete and asphalt radiate heat absorbed during the day, making urban areas typically several degrees warmer than rural areas, the weather service said.
    Rebecca Johnson, Chicago Tribune, 22 June 2025
  • In Alaska, warm and dry conditions coupled with frequent thunderstorms and lightning have resulted in more than 100 fires since Wednesday.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 22 June 2025
Adjective
  • To their credit, the Heat have been gracious in their credit to the Panthers.
    Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 20 June 2025
  • The food was unfussy and full-flavored, the service gracious, and the staff — from the spa therapists to the bakers — seemed genuinely happy to be here.
    Rooksana Hossenally, Forbes.com, 18 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Amicable.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/amicable. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on amicable

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