an amicable decision

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an amicable decision" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a decision that is friendly, agreeable, or reached without conflict, often in contexts involving negotiations or disputes. Example: "After several hours of discussion, the two parties finally reached an amicable decision that satisfied both sides."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

On Thursday, Science Ltd., Mr. Hirst's company, told the Financial Times that the gallery owner  "Larry Gagosian and Damien have reached an amicable decision to part company," adding that the artist would continue his relationship with the White Cube Gallery in London.

The New York Times

"This was an amicable decision," says Haseltine, one in "our mutual best interests".

Science Magazine

Representatives of both groups reached an "amicable" decision that the Bobst Institute would function under the auspices of the Nixon Foundation, and that the Nixon Center would remain separate from the Bobst group, Simes said.

Los Angeles Times

In the Season 2 DVD commentary, Robert Kirkman and Glen Mazzara described the decision to retool the premiere in such a dramatic way as an amicable decision agreed upon between both the producers and AMC to make the premiere more of an "event" as well as to push the story forward.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

We have come to an amicable conclusion on all matters.

Huffington Post

Putting their relationship on ice, the couple declared through a spokeswoman that their split was "a temporary thing, a mutual and amicable decision".

The Guardian

Aikman said it was "a mutual and amicable decision" to waive him.

The New York Times - Sports

"We love Mike and it was the right, amicable decision that we came to together," said Maureen Sullivan, a spokeswoman.

The New York Times - Tech

Mr. Gauthier, who said that the amicable decision to split preceded MoMA's invitation, added: "It was a triumphant end.

The New York Times - Arts

Robert Lansing, the new secretary of state, also praised the Pope's dispatch; he later told Gibbons that it probably had much influence in the amicable decision that the German government had made.

University of Chicago

Here, you both can direct your attorneys to work together through settlement negotiations, to reach amicable decisions without ever meeting in a courtroom.

HuffPost

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an amicable decision", ensure the context reflects a situation where parties involved have reached a resolution without animosity. This phrase suggests a positive and cooperative outcome, so confirm it aligns with the actual circumstances.

Common error

Don't assume that "an amicable decision" necessarily represents the best possible outcome for all parties. It simply indicates that the decision was reached without significant conflict, even if some compromise was required. This is not the same as all parties being completely satisfied.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an amicable decision" functions as a noun phrase, where 'amicable' modifies the noun 'decision'. It typically acts as the object of a verb or the subject of a clause. Ludwig AI confirms the grammatical correctness and usability of the phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an amicable decision" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that signifies a resolution or agreement reached without animosity. As validated by Ludwig AI, it is correct and suitable for use in varied contexts, but commonly found in news reports and formal discussions. While often used to describe settlements and departures, it’s essential to remember that it reflects a friendly resolution, not necessarily an ideal outcome for all involved parties. Alternatives such as "a mutually agreeable resolution" or "a peaceful settlement" can be used to express similar meanings with slightly different emphasis. This phrase is applicable in neutral or professional registers, ensuring clear and cooperative communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a mutually agreeable resolution

Focuses on the agreement between parties, emphasizing mutual satisfaction.

a peaceful settlement

Highlights the absence of conflict and the attainment of peace.

a friendly agreement

Emphasizes the positive and harmonious nature of the agreement.

an agreeable compromise

Stresses the aspect of concession and mutual adjustment.

a harmonious resolution

Implies a smooth and balanced outcome, free of discord.

a consensual determination

Highlights the element of consent and unified agreement.

a collaborative conclusion

Focuses on the cooperative aspect of reaching the final decision.

a non-contentious judgment

Emphasizes the absence of dispute or argument in the decision-making process.

a cordial arrangement

Stresses the warm and friendly atmosphere in which the agreement was made.

a sympathetic understanding

Highlights the empathy and consideration involved in reaching a mutual agreement.

FAQs

How can I use "an amicable decision" in a sentence?

You can use "an amicable decision" to describe a situation where parties reach an agreement without animosity or conflict. For example: "After a long negotiation, the company and the union reached "an amicable decision" regarding employee benefits."

What can I say instead of "an amicable decision"?

You can use alternatives like "a mutually agreeable resolution", "a peaceful settlement", or "a friendly agreement", depending on the specific context.

Is "amicable decision" formal or informal?

"Amicable decision" is suitable for both formal and professional contexts, as it conveys a sense of professionalism and cooperation. It's appropriate for business negotiations, legal settlements, and diplomatic discussions.

What's the difference between "an amicable decision" and "a compromise"?

While both terms imply agreement, "an amicable decision" emphasizes the friendly and cooperative nature of the resolution. A "compromise" simply indicates that each party made concessions, but it does not necessarily imply a positive or harmonious atmosphere.