unilateral
UK: ˌjuːnɪˈlætərəl | US: ˌjuːnɪˈlætərəl
adj. involving or affecting only one side or party
adj. performed or undertaken by one side independently
unilateral = uni<one> + later<side> + al<adjective suffix>
- uni (from Latin unus, meaning "one")
- later (from Latin latus, meaning "side")
- al (Latin-derived suffix forming adjectives)
Etymology Origin:
The word unilateral originates from Latin roots, combining uni- (one) and lateralis (side). It entered English in the early 19th century, initially used in legal and diplomatic contexts to describe actions taken by a single party without reciprocal obligations. The logical progression reflects its literal meaning: "one-sided."
The country made a unilateral decision to withdraw from the treaty.
Unilateral sanctions often strain international relations.
The policy change was implemented unilaterally, without consulting stakeholders.
A unilateral declaration of independence sparked controversy.
The CEO took unilateral action to restructure the company.