inimical - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
inimical Word Meanings
- hostile or unfriendly
- adverse or harmful
- indicating opposition or resistance
inimical Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
inimical Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪˈnɪmɪkəl/
US
/ɪˈnɪmɪkəl/
inimical Word Etymology
inimical is derived from 'in-' (not) + 'amicus' (friend). The term evolved from Latin through Old French into English. Picture a person shunning another, creating a wall of enmity between them.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Inimical describes something that is hostile, unfriendly, or adverse to something else. It can refer to people who are unfriendly toward another person, creating a barrier of distrust, or to conditions, policies, or forces that are harmful or obstructive to a goal. For example, an inimical environment makes collaboration difficult, or inimical weather makes travel dangerous. The core idea is opposition or resistance that prevents progress rather than merely being neutral. In academic and formal writing, inimical is slightly stronger and more precise than 'unfriendly' or 'unfavorable.' It carries a sense of active opposition rather than passive disfavor.
Usage Reminders
- Use inimical for formal tone with explicit opposition to a goal or condition.
- Always follow with to + noun (inimical to the policy, inimical to the environment).
- Reserve for situations where there is active resistance, not mere negativity.
- Distinguish from hostile as a person vs hostile conditions.
- Avoid casual language; prefer alternatives like unfavorable or harmful when appropriate.
Common Misconceptions
- It only describes people who are unfriendly; it also applies to environments, policies, or conditions.
- It means physically harmful or dangerous, which is not always the case.
- It is interchangeable with 'hostile' in casual speech.
- It cannot take 'to' with an object (it must be 'inimical to X').
- It is a modern slang term and not found in formal writing.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Learn the main collocations: inimical to, inimical environment, inimical policy.
- Remember it emphasizes active opposition, not just negativity.
- Compare with hostile (toward a person) vs hostile conditions (environment or policy).
- Prefer formal contexts; substitute with unfavourable in casual writing.
- Use with objects that can be opposed, not usually with people in everyday speech.
- Practice paraphrasing: 'not friendly to' vs 'detrimental to' depending on nuance.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'inimical'?
A.Hostile
B.Healthy
C.Joyful
D.Secure
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following sentences uses 'inimical' correctly?
A.The inimical weather made outdoor activities impossible.
B.The two countries formed an inimical alliance.
C.His inimical actions helped resolve the conflict.
D.She greeted him warmly with an inimical smile.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'inimical'?
A.Friendly
B.Adept
C.Generous
D.Antagonistic
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an opposite of 'inimical'?
A.Detrimental
B.Adverse
C.Harsh
D.Amicable
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context might you encounter the word 'inimical'?
A.Cooking competition
B.International diplomacy
C.Charity fundraiser
D.Art exhibition
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