amicable solution

Meaning

1. 1nouncountableformal

   An agreement that settles a disagreement peacefully, leaving both sides on good terms without a fight or a court case.

   Grammar: Often follows verbs like reach or find: reach an amicable solution.

   Patterns

   • an amicable solution to something
   • reach an amicable solution

   The neighbors reached an amicable solution about the fence.

   We hope to find an amicable solution without going to court.

   An amicable solution to the dispute pleased everyone.

Word forms

Common combinations

reach an amicable solution

The two firms reached an amicable solution.

seek an amicable solution

Both sides will seek an amicable solution.

find an amicable solution

We must find an amicable solution soon.

an amicable solution to a dispute

An amicable solution to the dispute saved the partnership.

work towards an amicable solution

They worked towards an amicable solution for months.

Synonyms and how they differ

compromise

A compromise means each side gives something up, while an amicable solution stresses friendly feelings.

peaceful settlement

Peaceful settlement is common in politics and law, while amicable solution is more personal.

friendly agreement

Friendly agreement is plainer and less formal.

resolution

Resolution means the problem is solved, but it does not say anything about the relationship.

Opposites

Word family

amicable adjective

friendly and without hostility

amicably adverb

in a friendly way

amicability noun

friendliness

solve verb

to find an answer

Commonly confused: amicable solution or amiable?

Practice

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Write a sentence using “amicable solution”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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