What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bilateral
Example
The two countries signed a bilateral trade agreement. [bilateral: adjective]
Example
The patient underwent bilateral knee surgery. [bilateral: adjective]
reciprocal
Example
They have a reciprocal agreement to share resources. [reciprocal: adjective]
Example
Their friendship is based on reciprocal trust and support. [reciprocal: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Reciprocal is more commonly used than bilateral in everyday language. Reciprocal has a wider range of applications and can be used to describe various types of relationships or actions, while bilateral is more specific and often used in specialized fields.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between bilateral and reciprocal?
While bilateral is typically associated with formal contexts, such as international diplomacy or medical discussions, reciprocal can be used in both formal and informal situations, making it more versatile in terms of formality.
