Synonyms for

Unilateral

Verb / ˌju:nʌˈlætɜ:ʌl / Another word for unilateral — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

relating to, occurring on, or involving one side only

Synonyms & similar words

onesided multilateral one-sided single independent solitary isolated solitary individual unique exclusive sole particular distinctive different distinct separate discrete unshared personal private restricted

Synonyms by register

Formal

one-sided partisan nonreciprocal

Informal

one-way take-it-or-leave-it

Literary

singular isolated

Antonyms

mutual joint reciprocal shared collective bilateral common

Common collocations

  • unilateral action
  • unilateral decision
  • unilateral agreement
  • unilateral declaration
  • unilateral trade
  • unilateral disarmament
  • unilateral basis

Word family

noun unilateralism
adverb unilaterally

Usage note

Often used in political or diplomatic contexts to describe actions taken by one party without the agreement of others. Avoid using it for situations that are inherently mutual.

Example sentences

  1. The student made a unilateral decision to sit at a different desk.
  2. The company made a unilateral decision to raise prices.
  3. The government's unilateral action caused controversy.
  4. The team captain made a unilateral decision to change the game plan.
  5. The artist's work was a unilateral expression of their creativity.

Quotes

  • "Peace is a never-ending process... It cannot ignore our differences or overlook our common interests. It requires us to work and live together." - Ban Ki-moon
  • "The United States stands with people of all nations who aspire to greater freedom, prosperity, and dignity. We support political and economic liberty, free and fair elections, and the advance of human rights." - John F. Kerry
  • "The United States has a vital interest in seeing that Iran does not develop a nuclear weapon and that we can still - along with our allies and partners - prevent that from occurring." - Joe Biden

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