What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
unilaterally
Example
The company decided unilaterally to cut employee benefits. [unilaterally: adverb]
Example
The president acted unilaterally in making the decision to go to war. [unilaterally: adverb]
solely
Example
I am solely responsible for the success of this project. [solely: adverb]
Example
The company's decision was based solely on financial considerations. [solely: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Solely is more commonly used than unilaterally in everyday language. Solely is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while unilaterally is less common and tends to be used in more formal or legal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between unilaterally and solely?
Unilaterally is typically associated with a formal or legal tone, while solely is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.