ENGLISH
REFERENCE

multilateral

adj.
C1 Advanced US //ˌməɫtiˈɫætɝəɫ// UK //mˌʌltɪlˈætəɹəl// mul·ti·lat·er·al

adj. involving more than two groups or countries. You use this to describe agreements or talks where many different sides work together.

adj. involving or participated in by three or more parties, especially the governments of different countries. Often used to describe diplomatic negotiations or trade agreements.


SIMPLE

The countries signed a multilateral trade agreement.

CONTEXTUAL

The climate summit is a multilateral effort to reduce global carbon emissions through shared goals.

COMPLEX

Diplomats argued that a multilateral approach was the only viable path toward regional stability, as bilateral agreements often ignored the security concerns of neighboring states.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Origin

From multi- + lateral.

Usage

Typically used attributively before a noun; often contrasted with 'bilateral' or 'unilateral'.

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