inimical
/ɪˈnɪmɪkəl/
Group 4Difficulty 2/3
Definition
- (adjective)
- Tending to obstruct or harm; unfriendly; hostile GRE
Example in Context
The regulatory environment was widely viewed as inimical to innovation, discouraging the risk-taking that drives technological progress.
Synonyms
hostileharmfulunfriendly
Etymology
Root means 'enemy' — something that obstructs or harms, just like an enemy.
- inimicus (Latin) — unfriendly
Memory Aid
🚫Sounds like “enemy call”
When your ENEMY CALLS, it's always an INIMICAL situation; they're not calling for a friendly chat!
Visual Association
🦠A toxic handshake between foes, symbolizing the unfriendly and harmful nature of their relationship.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “inimical” mean on the GRE?
inimical (adjective) means “Tending to obstruct or harm; unfriendly; hostile”. The regulatory environment was widely viewed as inimical to innovation, discouraging the risk-taking that drives technological progress.
How to remember “inimical” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “inimical” sounds like “enemy call”. When your ENEMY CALLS, it's always an INIMICAL situation; they're not calling for a friendly chat!
What are synonyms for “inimical”?
Common synonyms: hostile, harmful, unfriendly.