In standard English vocabulary, which of the following options is the best antonym of the word "Amicable" (friendly and peace loving)?

Introduction / Context:
This is a vocabulary based question that tests your knowledge of antonyms, that is, words with opposite meanings. The given word is "Amicable", which is often used in contexts like "amicable settlement" or "amicable relationship". Competitive exams frequently ask such questions to evaluate how precisely you understand shades of meaning in English words. Here you must find the option that has a meaning opposite to "Amicable".

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The target word is "Amicable".
• The options are "Hostile", "Loveable", "Friendly", "Peaceful", and "Kind".
• Standard dictionary meanings in modern English are assumed.

Concept / Approach:
First, recall what "Amicable" means. It describes a situation or relationship that is friendly, without conflict, cooperative, and marked by goodwill. Then, examine each option to see which one stands in direct opposition to this idea. The correct antonym should carry a sense of enmity, opposition, conflict, or unfriendliness. Words that are similar in meaning, such as "Friendly" or "Peaceful", are clearly not the required answer because they match, rather than oppose, "Amicable".

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Understand that "Amicable" refers to friendly, cooperative, and harmonious relationships or situations. Step 2: Evaluate "Hostile". This word means unfriendly, antagonistic, and ready for conflict. It describes the opposite kind of atmosphere compared to an amicable one. Step 3: Evaluate "Loveable". It means someone or something that is easy to love or attract affection. This is positive and close in spirit to friendly, so it is not an antonym. Step 4: Evaluate "Friendly". This is almost a direct synonym for "Amicable", so it cannot be the opposite. Step 5: Evaluate "Peaceful". A peaceful situation is calm and without conflict, which again is close to amicable and not its opposite. Step 6: Evaluate "Kind". This describes a gentle or considerate nature, which also supports friendly relations and does not oppose "Amicable". Step 7: Conclude that "Hostile" is the only option that expresses antagonism, conflict, and unfriendliness, which are opposite to an amicable state.

Verification / Alternative check:
Think of typical phrases: "amicable divorce" means a divorce where both parties are cooperative and not fighting. Its opposite would be a "hostile divorce", where there is bitterness and conflict. Similarly, "amicable settlement" versus "hostile stand" shows how the two words are used in contrasting ways. This real world usage confirms that "Hostile" is the correct antonym.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
"Loveable" enhances the idea of affection and is compatible with amicable, not opposed to it.
"Friendly" is almost the same as "Amicable" and therefore cannot be an antonym.
"Peaceful" also aligns with harmony and lack of conflict, which is very similar to amicable relationships.
"Kind" is a positive, gentle quality that supports amicable behaviour, not an opposite condition.

Common Pitfalls:
Exam takers sometimes confuse antonym questions with synonym questions and pick a word that sounds positive or similar rather than opposite. Another trap is to rely on surface familiarity, for example, seeing "Friendly" and quickly marking it without reading that the question asks for an antonym. Always read whether the test is about synonym or antonym and mentally restate the target word with a short definition before checking the options.

Final Answer:
The correct antonym of "Amicable" is Hostile.