Amicability Meaning: Definition and Examples
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amicability
[ˌeɪmɪkəˈbɪləti ]
Definitions
in social interactions
The quality of being pleasant and friendly; friendliness.
Synonyms
affability, cordiality, friendliness, sociability.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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amicability |
Amicability refers to the quality of being friendly and pleasant. This term is often used in formal or professional settings to describe relationships or negotiations that are carried out in a friendly manner.
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friendliness |
Friendliness is a general term for the quality of being kind and pleasant. It can be used in a wide range of contexts, both formal and informal, to describe a person’s or a group’s approach.
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affability |
Affability is used to describe someone who is easy to talk to and approachable. It is often used in social contexts to highlight a person's warmth and friendliness.
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sociability |
Sociability refers to the quality of being social and enjoying the company of others. It is often used to describe someone who actively seeks out social interactions and enjoys socializing.
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cordiality |
Cordiality refers to warmth and sincerity in behavior. It is often used to describe interactions that are genuinely friendly and heartfelt, usually in formal or semi-formal settings.
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Examples of usage
- He was known for his amicability and willingness to help others.
- Her amicability made everyone feel welcome in her home.
in diplomatic relations
The quality of having a good relationship, especially between countries or organizations.
Synonyms
cooperation, cordiality, friendship, harmony.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
amicability |
Amicability is often used to describe friendly interactions, especially in a formal or professional setting. It's about having a pleasant and cooperative attitude without necessarily being close friends.
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Examples of usage
- The amicability between the two nations led to successful negotiations.
- Diplomatic efforts were made to maintain amicability among the allied countries.
Interesting Facts
Social Psychology
- Research shows that amicable interactions can lead to better cooperation and teamwork.
- Being amicable can reduce stress and improve your overall mental health.
- Positive social interactions are associated with longevity and happiness.
Conflict Resolution
- In negotiations, amicability is crucial for reaching mutually beneficial agreements.
- Amicable environments are often linked to higher productivity in workplaces.
- Mediators emphasize amicability when resolving disputes to ensure both parties feel respected.
Culture
- Many cultures value amicable relationships; for instance, the concept of 'Ubuntu' in African cultures emphasizes togetherness and friendliness.
- In Japan, the term 'wa' represents harmony, highlighting the importance of amicable relations in society.
- Amicability is often celebrated during festivals and community gatherings, representing unity.
Literature
- Amicability is a common theme in classic literature, symbolizing key relationships between characters, such as friendships in novels.
- Authors often use amicable interactions to drive the plot forward or resolve conflicts.
- In poetry, amicability can symbolize peace and harmony within communities.
Origin of 'amicability'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Latin 'amicabilis', meaning 'friendly'.
- It’s related to 'amicus', which means 'friend' in Latin, showing the connection to kindness.
- The prefix 'ami-' in many languages means friend, like 'amigo' in Spanish.
The word 'amicability' comes from the Latin word 'amicabilis', which means 'friendly' or 'kind'. The term has been used in English since the early 17th century to describe the quality of being friendly and agreeable in social interactions or diplomatic relations. Over the years, 'amicability' has been associated with fostering positive relationships and promoting harmony among individuals or groups.