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

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in positive

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

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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

Example 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

The first international match of the year for Costa Rica is here, and they're headed to Orlando's Inter & Co Stadium on Wednesday to take on the USA in what's shaping up to be a lively friendly. —

Raul A. Reyes, Newsweek, 23 Jan. 2025 Or at least Harry and Sally couldn't, but Ryan and Crystal have remained friendly over the years since the film's release. —

Ryan Coleman, EW.com, 22 Jan. 2025

Adverb

Wednesday had a friendly-looking cloud and a few raindrops, and Thursday had a dark, threatening cloud with heavier drops. —

F. Martin Ralph, Scientific American, 19 Aug. 2022 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

Noun

Yohannes was called up to USWNT’s two latest friendlies. —

Ben Church, CNN, 4 Dec. 2024 After defeating Iceland in a pair of friendlies, the USWNT will now face Argentina on Wednesday, October 30 at Lynn Family Stadium in Louisville, KY at 4pm PT/7pm ET. —

Jackie Gutierrez, Forbes, 28 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for friendly

Recent Examples of Synonyms for friendly

Adjective

Denver is experiencing slightly warmer than average temperatures for late January, but snow remains in the forecast.

— Jonathan Granoff, Newsweek, 29 Jan. 2025
By integrating Italian fashion aesthetics with Chinese traditions, the film creates warm, relatable moments.

— WWD, WWD, 29 Jan. 2025