Unilaterial vs. Unilateral: The Correct Spellings

Edited by Muazma Batool — By Muneeza Rehman — Updated on February 28, 2024

Unilaterial is incorrect; the right spelling is "unilateral," meaning done by or affecting only one side.

Unilaterial vs. Unilateral

Which is correct: Unilaterial or Unilateral

How to spell Unilateral?

Incorrect Spelling

Unilaterial

Correct Spelling

Unilateral

Is it Unilaterial or Unilateral

Between "unilaterial" and "unilateral," the correct spelling is "unilateral." The difference lies in the arrangement and number of letters, with "unilaterial" having an unnecessary extra 'i'.

Dec 31, 2023

A related form of the word is "unilaterally," serving as the adverbial variation.

Dec 31, 2023

To remember the spelling of "unilateral," think of "uni" (meaning one, as in unicycle or unicorn) followed by "lateral" (relating to the side). By combining "uni" and "lateral," you have "unilateral," meaning "one-sided."

Dec 31, 2023

"Unilateral" comes from the Latin roots "uni-", meaning "one", and "latus" which means "side". Thus, the term refers to one-sided actions or decisions. Its etymology underscores the action or effect pertaining to one side.

Dec 31, 2023

How Do You Spell Unilateral Correctly?

Incorrect: A unilaterial agreement is not effective in international relations.

Correct: A unilateral agreement is not effective in international relations.

Feb 28, 2024

Incorrect: The government's unilaterial action sparked controversy among the citizens.

Correct: The government's unilateral action sparked controversy among the citizens.

Feb 28, 2024

Incorrect: The policy was implemented on a unilaterial basis.

Correct: The policy was implemented on a unilateral basis.

Feb 28, 2024

Incorrect: The decision was made in a unilaterial manner, without consulting others.

Correct: The decision was made in a unilateral manner, without consulting others.

Feb 28, 2024

Incorrect: She took a unilaterial decision that affected the entire team.

Correct: She took a unilateral decision that affected the entire team.

Feb 28, 2024

Unilateral Definitions

Relating to, occurring on, or affecting only one side.

She made a unilateral decision without consulting her team.

Sep 18, 2023

Pertaining to one side of a subject or area.

The pain was unilateral, focused only on the left side of his body.

Sep 18, 2023

Biased or one-sided in perspective or approach.

His unilateral viewpoint didn't consider the broader implications.

Sep 18, 2023

Performed or undertaken by only one party or entity.

The country took unilateral action against the perceived threat.

Sep 18, 2023

Of, on, relating to, involving, or affecting only one side

"a unilateral advantage in defense" (New Republic).

Sep 17, 2023

Performed or undertaken by only one side

unilateral disarmament.

Sep 17, 2023

Obligating only one of two or more parties, nations, or persons, as a contract or an agreement.

Sep 17, 2023

Emphasizing or recognizing only one side of a subject.

Sep 17, 2023

Having only one side.

Sep 17, 2023

Tracing the lineage of one parent only

a unilateral genealogy.

Sep 17, 2023

(Botany) Having leaves, flowers, or other parts on one side only.

Sep 17, 2023

Done by one side only.

Sep 17, 2023

Affecting only one side of the body.

Sep 17, 2023

Binding or affecting one party only.

Sep 17, 2023

Being on one side only; affecting but one side; one-sided.

Sep 17, 2023

Pertaining to one side; one-sided; as, a unilateral raceme, in which the flowers grow only on one side of a common axis, or are all turned to one side.

Sep 17, 2023

involving only one part or side;

unilateral paralysis

a unilateral decision

Sep 17, 2023

tracing descent from either the paternal or the maternal line only

Sep 17, 2023

Involving or obligating only one of several parties.

The treaty was a unilateral agreement, not requiring approval from other nations.

Sep 18, 2023

Unilateral Meaning in a Sentence

In diplomacy, unilateral actions can sometimes undermine collective efforts.

Feb 28, 2024

The company's CEO made a unilateral decision to expand into new markets.

Feb 28, 2024

The teacher took unilateral action to change the course syllabus.

Feb 28, 2024

The government's unilateral changes to the law were met with public protests.

Feb 28, 2024

The president issued a unilateral directive without seeking approval from Congress.

Feb 28, 2024

Unilateral decisions in a partnership can lead to conflicts and misunderstandings.

Feb 28, 2024

In a family, unilateral decisions by one member can upset the balance of the household.

Feb 28, 2024

Unilateral sanctions were imposed by the country in response to the crisis.

Feb 28, 2024

The manager's unilateral approach to decision-making was criticized by the staff.

Feb 28, 2024

The unilateral implementation of new regulations caught many businesses off guard.

Feb 28, 2024

A unilateral ceasefire was declared by one side of the conflict.

Feb 28, 2024

He made a unilateral decision to cancel the project, surprising his team.

Feb 28, 2024

The country's unilateral declaration of independence led to international tensions.

Feb 28, 2024

A unilateral withdrawal from the agreement put the negotiations at risk.

Feb 28, 2024

Unilateral decisions in environmental policy can have far-reaching impacts.

Feb 28, 2024

Unilateral trade measures can lead to retaliation and trade wars.

Feb 28, 2024

The organization's unilateral move to alter its policies sparked debate among its members.

Feb 28, 2024

Unilateral decisions often overlook the benefits of collaborative problem-solving.

Feb 28, 2024

Her unilateral approach to leadership caused dissatisfaction within the group.

Feb 28, 2024

A unilateral change in policy can sometimes be necessary for rapid response to emergencies.

Feb 28, 2024

A unilateral move to alter the terms of the contract was deemed unfair.

Feb 28, 2024

The unilateral establishment of a no-fly zone was a bold strategic move.

Feb 28, 2024

The coach's unilateral decision to change the team lineup was unexpected.

Feb 28, 2024

The unilateral action taken by the council did not consider the community's opinion.

Feb 28, 2024

The director's unilateral decision to shut down the program was controversial.

Feb 28, 2024

Unilateral Idioms

Unilateral decision

A decision made by one party or person without the agreement or consultation of others.

The CEO's unilateral decision to shut down the branch took everyone by surprise.

Feb 28, 2024

Unilateral adjustment

A change made by one party in an agreement without consulting the other parties involved.

The unilateral adjustment to the terms of the contract led to a legal dispute.

Feb 28, 2024

Unilateral declaration

A statement or announcement made by one party without the consent of others.

The rebel group's unilateral declaration of independence led to political turmoil.

Feb 28, 2024

Unilateral imposition

Forcing rules, regulations, or conditions on others by one party without their agreement.

The unilateral imposition of tariffs angered trading partners.

Feb 28, 2024

Unilateral disarmament

The act of one country voluntarily giving up its weapons without requiring other countries to do the same.

The peace activist advocated for unilateral disarmament as a gesture of goodwill.

Feb 28, 2024

Unilateral sanctions

Penalties or restrictions imposed by one country on another without the cooperation of other countries.

The country faced economic challenges due to unilateral sanctions by a major power.

Feb 28, 2024

Unilateral action

An action taken by one side in a situation without the agreement of other involved parties.

The government's unilateral action to close the borders was a response to the health crisis.

Feb 28, 2024

Unilateral intervention

When one country intervenes in another country's affairs without the support or agreement of other nations.

The international community debated the legality of the unilateral intervention.

Feb 28, 2024

Unilateral withdrawal

Pulling out of an agreement or commitment by one party without the consent of others.

The nation faced criticism for its unilateral withdrawal from the climate accord.

Feb 28, 2024

Unilateral policy

A policy adopted by one entity without seeking or requiring the approval or cooperation of others.

The organization's unilateral policy on remote work divided opinions among employees.

Feb 28, 2024

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there other forms of "unilateral"?

Yes, "unilaterally" is an adverbial form of the word "unilateral."

Dec 31, 2023

How can one remember how to spell "unilateral"?

Recall that "unilateral" combines "uni" (meaning one) and "lateral" (referring to the side).

Dec 31, 2023

What does "unilateral" mean?

"Unilateral" describes actions, decisions, or effects that are done by or pertain to only one side.

Dec 31, 2023

Where did the term "unilateral" originate?

"Unilateral" has Latin roots, derived from "uni-", meaning "one", and "latus," which means "side."

Dec 31, 2023

How do you pronounce "unilateral"?

"Unilateral" is pronounced as /ˌjuː.nɪˈlæt.ər.əl/.

Dec 31, 2023

Can "unilateral" refer to decisions?

Yes, "unilateral" often describes decisions made by a single party without involving others.

Dec 31, 2023

Is "unilaterial" a word in the English dictionary?

No, "unilaterial" is an incorrect spelling. The right term is "unilateral."

Dec 31, 2023

Does "unilateral" always have a negative connotation?

Not necessarily. The term simply describes one-sided actions or effects, which can be either positive or negative based on the context.

Dec 31, 2023

What is the antonym of "unilateral"?

A common antonym of "unilateral" is "bilateral," which refers to two sides or parties.

Dec 31, 2023

Is "unilateral" only used in political contexts?

While often found in political discourse, "unilateral" can apply to any context where one-sided actions or effects are discussed.

Dec 31, 2023

Priviledge vs. Privilege

Rebell vs. Rebel

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At Comparisons.wiki, Muneeza skillfully navigates the vast sea of information, ensuring clarity and accuracy as the lead content editor. With a keen eye for detail, she curates every comparison to enlighten and engage readers.

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As a content editor, Muazma Batool is not just a grammar guru but a creative mastermind who breathes life into every word. With an eagle eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, she transforms bland text into engaging content that captivates audiences and drives results.