amicable relationship

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'amicable relationship' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a friendly or peaceful relationship between two people or groups. For example, "The two countries have an amicable relationship which has been maintained for many years."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

He has retained an amicable relationship with her.

The Guardian - Sport

Sara, Los Angeles Good for you for having such an amicable relationship with your former boyfriend.

The New York Times

Msipa's credibility as a witness is strengthened by his amicable relationship with Mugabe.

The Guardian

Stefano and Denise Capriati are divorced, but they have an amicable relationship.

The New York Times - Sports

"Extell has had an amicable relationship with the Antiques Garage, and we are delighted that it has found space nearby".

The New York Times

Ms. Badger had initiated divorce proceedings with her husband, Matthew, but they had an amicable relationship, the relative said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

Johnson has always kept amicable relationships with both the academic and the commercial side of the fossil world, and he wanted to stop by the booths of friends.

The New Yorker

Although longtime Han residents in Xinjiang generally have amicable relationships with their nine million Uighur neighbors, the continued mass migration of Hans into Uighur cities like Urumqi has intensified tensions.

The New Yorker

Trump National confirmed that Mr. Clinton had joined that golf club (membership: $300,000), known for its spectacular 100-foot waterfall on the 13th hole, and its less than amicable relationships with its neighbors in Briarcliff Manor.

The New York Times

Some cats may be related or familiar with each other (which may facilitate more amicable relationships in certain instances [ 18]), but the majority are potentially unrelated and also unfamiliar.

BMC Veterinary Research

The taluka health staff felt that channelling the frustrations of the PHC staff upwards was their role much more than managing conflicts and frustrations or building amicable relationships with the elected representatives.

Health Research Policy and Systems

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "amicable relationship" to describe situations where maintaining a positive and cooperative dynamic is key, such as in business negotiations or post-divorce co-parenting.

Common error

Avoid using "amicable relationship" generically. Always ensure the context supports the assertion that the relationship is genuinely friendly and cooperative, not just superficially polite.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "amicable relationship" functions as a noun phrase, with "amicable" modifying the noun "relationship". It describes the quality or nature of a connection between two or more parties. Ludwig shows that this phrase is commonly used to describe various types of positive interactions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Wiki

21%

Huffington Post

17%

Less common in

Science

8%

Encyclopedias

4%

The New Yorker

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "amicable relationship" is a commonly used term to describe a positive and cooperative connection between individuals or groups. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and appropriate for various contexts. Usage patterns show it's prevalent in news media, encyclopedias and wiki platforms and science publications, suggesting a register that ranges from neutral to professional. When aiming for clarity in writing, be specific about the nature and context of the relationship, avoiding overuse without proper justification. Related phrases, such as "cordial connection" or "harmonious association", can provide nuanced alternatives depending on the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cordial connection

Replaces 'relationship' with 'connection' emphasizing the link between entities, 'cordial' maintains the warmth.

congenial rapport

Emphasizes the pleasant and agreeable nature of the interaction using 'congenial' and 'rapport'.

harmonious association

Uses 'harmonious' to highlight the peaceful nature and 'association' for a formal connection.

warm relations

Emphasizes the positive emotional tone between individuals or entities.

friendly understanding

Focuses on the 'understanding' aspect of the relationship being positive and 'friendly'.

agreeable partnership

Focuses on a professional collaboration with shared goals, maintaining a positive tone.

peaceful coexistence

Highlights the 'peaceful' nature of the relationship, suggesting a lack of conflict.

cooperative alliance

Implies a working together aspect, emphasizing 'cooperation'.

civil acquaintance

Highlights the respectful and courteous aspect of the connection, suitable when the bond is not close.

good terms

Simplifies the expression to a basic state of being in agreement and without conflict.

FAQs

How can I use "amicable relationship" in a sentence?

You can use "amicable relationship" to describe a positive and cooperative connection between people or groups. For instance, "Despite their divorce, they maintained an "amicable relationship" for the sake of their children".

What are some alternatives to "amicable relationship"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "cordial connection", "harmonious association", or "friendly understanding".

Is it correct to say "amicable relations" instead of "amicable relationship"?

Yes, "amicable relations" is also correct and often used, especially when referring to the connections between countries or organizations.

What distinguishes an "amicable relationship" from a "friendly relationship"?

While both terms denote positive connections, an ""amicable relationship"" often implies a degree of formality or necessity for cooperation, whereas a "friendly relationship" is generally more informal and based on personal affection.