FRIENDLY Synonyms: 331 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the adjective 'friendly' contrast with its synonyms?

The words amicable and neighborly are common synonyms of friendly . While all three words mean "exhibiting goodwill and an absence of antagonism," friendly stresses cordiality and often warmth or intimacy of personal relations. // sought friendly advice

Q: When can 'amicable' be used instead of 'friendly'?

Although the words amicable and friendly have much in common, amicable implies a state of peace and a desire on the part of the parties not to quarrel. // maintained amicable relations

Q: In what contexts can 'neighborly' take the place of 'friendly'?

The words neighborly and friendly are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, neighborly implies a disposition to live on good terms with others and to be helpful on principle. // neighborly concern

friendly 1 of 3

adjective

ˈfren(d)-lē

Definition of friendly next

as in warm

having or showing kindly feeling and sincere interest all of the people in my new department seem friendly as a friendly gesture, we presented our new neighbors with a plate of homemade cookies

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in familiar

closely acquainted we're friendly with our neighbors

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in positive

expressing approval a friendly sign that our pet project would be approved

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in obliging

willing to do a favor a kid-friendly restaurant with high chairs and a special menu for small-fry appetites

Synonyms & Similar Words

as in helpful

promoting or contributing to personal or social well-being the state's attitude towards commercial development is widely regarded as friendly to the business community

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

friendly

2 of 3

adverb

as in friendlily

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

friendly

3 of 3

noun

as in intimate

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective friendly contrast with its synonyms?

The words amicable and neighborly are common synonyms of friendly. While all three words mean "exhibiting goodwill and an absence of antagonism," friendly stresses cordiality and often warmth or intimacy of personal relations.

sought friendly advice

When can amicable be used instead of friendly?

Although the words amicable and friendly have much in common, amicable implies a state of peace and a desire on the part of the parties not to quarrel.

maintained amicable relations

In what contexts can neighborly take the place of friendly?

The words neighborly and friendly are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, neighborly implies a disposition to live on good terms with others and to be helpful on principle.

neighborly concern

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of friendly

Adjective

During that time, the actor purchased an uninhabitable island in Tahiti and recruited Los Angeles architect Judge, portrayed by Jon Heder, to build the world’s first ecologically friendly retreat. —

Samantha Bergeson, IndieWire, 5 Nov. 2024 Wisconsin is very friendly turf to Republicans, demographically speaking. —

Craig Gilbert, Journal Sentinel, 5 Nov. 2024

Adverb

Midtown offices offers an excellent view — especially of the giant purple robot and friendly-looking hot dog that are waving from behind skyscrapers. —

Lyndsey Havens, Billboard, 28 July 2022 Events for May 26 include a stress management program 10-11 a.m., low vision tips and tricks noon to 1 p.m. and friendly beat the champs chair volleyball and corn hole competitions 1-2 p.m. —

Carol Kovach, cleveland, 24 May 2022

Noun

Hickey returned to light training this summer but did not feature in any of their pre-season friendlies or their first two games of the season. —

Jay Harris, The Athletic, 29 Aug. 2024 The Argentine will officially take charge for the upcoming friendlies on October 12 in Austin against Panama, followed by an away game against bitter rivals Mexico three days later. —

Don Riddell, CNN, 13 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for friendly

Recent Examples of Synonyms for friendly

Adjective

If frostbite occurs, move indoors, remove wet clothing, and soak the affected body part in warm water.

Amanda Castro, Newsweek, 18 Dec. 2024
With the building’s heat broken, making copies of their hands is the only way to stay warm.

Sara Netzley, EW.com, 17 Dec. 2024