Inimical
hardNegative toneih-NIM-ih-kul
adjective
Definition
Tending to obstruct or harm; unfriendly; hostile
Memory hook
IN-IM-ICAL: like an ENEMY (inimicus) — hostile and harmful to your interests.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The harsh climate was inimical to agriculture.”
“His policies were inimical to the interests of workers.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The harsh climate was ______ to agriculture.”
Show answer
inimical
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Inimical is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "hostile" or "adverse" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "friendly".
Related GRE Words
antagonistic
Showing or feeling active opposition or hostility toward someone or something
adverse
Preventing success or development; harmful or unfavorable
belligerent
Hostile and aggressive; engaged in war or conflict
virulent
extremely harmful, bitterly hostile, or severely infectious
acrimonious
Bitter and sharp in language or tone; caustic
baleful
Threatening harm; menacing; having a harmful or destructive effect
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