Definition

Harmful or hostile; showing a tendency to cause damage or be unfriendly.

Example

The inimical environment made it difficult for the plants to survive.

Conversation

I heard that some of the new policies at work are quite inimical to team morale.

Yeah, I've noticed that too; it's making everyone a bit uneasy.

It's frustrating because a positive atmosphere is so important for productivity.

Absolutely, we need to find a way to address those inimical changes.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Inimical → It is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "amicus" (meaning friend). The word describes something that is not friendly or hostile.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('in-') being combined with 'friend' ('amicus') to remember that 'inimical' means hostile or unfriendly.

Visually Confused Words