# unilaterally

/ˌjunəˈɫætɝəɫi/ (US) · /jˌuːnɪlˈætəɹəli/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/unilaterally
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

done by one person, group, or country without asking or involving others. You use this when someone makes a big decision on their own that affects everyone.

For teachers: performed by or affecting only one person, group, or country involved in a situation, without the agreement of others.

## Examples

- The manager unilaterally changed the office hours.
- The country decided to unilaterally withdraw from the trade agreement, surprising its neighboring allies.
- Legal experts argued that the CEO could not unilaterally alter the terms of the contract without a formal vote from the board of directors.

## Usage notes

- Typically describes the manner in which a decision or action is taken; often placed before the verb it modifies or at the end of the clause.

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