inimical
Adjective
Hard difficulty
What does “inimical” mean?
adjective.tending to obstruct or harm.
SAT Usage
this word is often found in contexts discussing conflict, opposition, or harmful relationships, particularly in literature or social studies passages. It emphasizes a more active and hostile influence than similar terms like "adverse," suggesting a deliberate intent to hinder or cause damage rather than merely presenting a negative effect.
Common Confusions
Inimical implies a deliberate intent to obstruct or harm, while adverse usually suggests a more passive negative effect without the same level of hostility.
Do not choose inimical if the context emphasizes friendliness or support rather than the tendency to obstruct or harm.
Example Sentences
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Such extreme cold is inimical to most forms of plant life.
Word Parts: How to Remember “inimical”
Break “inimical” into its parts: in- (not). Knowing roots like these helps you decode unfamiliar SAT vocabulary.
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Prefix:
in-not (Latin)