bilateral Definition
having or relating to two sides; affecting both sides.
Using bilateral: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "bilateral" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The two countries signed a bilateral trade agreement.
Example
The bilateral talks between the two leaders were productive.
Example
The patient had bilateral knee surgery.
Example
The bilateral relationship between the two companies is strong.
bilateral Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for bilateral
- reciprocal
- mutual
- shared
- two-sided
- double-edged
Antonyms for bilateral
- unilateral
- one-sided
Phrases with bilateral
Example
The sale of the house was a bilateral contract.
the property of being divisible into symmetrical halves on either side of a unique plane
Example
Butterflies have bilateral symmetry.
Example
The United States provides bilateral aid to many countries around the world.
Origins of bilateral
from Latin 'bi-' meaning 'two' and 'latus' meaning 'side'
Summary: bilateral in Brief
The term 'bilateral' [baɪˈlætərəl] refers to something that has two sides or affects both sides. It can describe agreements, relationships, or medical procedures, as in 'The two countries signed a bilateral trade agreement.' 'Bilateral' also extends into phrases like 'bilateral contract,' denoting mutual promises, and 'bilateral symmetry,' describing the property of being divisible into symmetrical halves.