bilateral
by-LAT-er-uhl
/baɪˈlætərəl/
Having or relating to two sides; affecting or undertaken by two parties or sovereign states.
Strictly limited to TWO distinct parties or nations engaged in a direct agreement or dialogue.
The story behind the word. Combines Latin 'bi-' (twice, two) and 'latus' (side). First recorded in English during the 18th century, initially used in anatomy (bilateral symmetry) before becoming a staple of geopolitical negotiations.
Word relationships
- bipartite: Bipartite means divided into two parts or involving two parties, often used in formal legal documents.
- two-sided: Two-sided is an informal everyday term, while bilateral is formal diplomatic or scientific terminology.
- unilateral: Unilateral action is taken by one side alone without consent of the other.
- multilateral: Multilateral involves three or more participating parties.
Commonly confused with
- multilateral: Bilateral involves two parties, while multilateral involves three or more.
Word family
- bilaterally (adverb): In a bilateral manner; between two parties.
- bilateralism (noun): Conducting international relations between two states.
Collocations
- bilateral treaty
- bilateral talks
- bilateral agreement
- bilateral relations
Idioms & expressions
- bilateral dialogue
Example sentences
- "The bilateral agreement between the United States and China paved the way for the successful negotiation of the Paris Accord." Joint presidential announcement
- "The two neighboring countries held bilateral talks to resolve water sharing rights along their joint border." Diplomatic news report
Memory hook
BI (two) + LATERAL (sided) = Two-sided deal. Two sides shaking hands.
When not to use
Do not use when three or more countries are involved in the agreement.
Fun facts
- Most trade agreements throughout human history were bilateral before the founding of global institutions like the World Trade Organization.
Related words
Explore more words
multilateral, unilateral, reciprocal, treaty, tandem, Agreement
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