bilateral

[baɪˈlætərəl]

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

• bilateral contract

  a legal agreement in which both parties make promises to each other

  Example

  The sale of the house was a bilateral contract.

• bilateral symmetry

  the property of being divisible into symmetrical halves on either side of a unique plane

  Example

  Butterflies have bilateral symmetry.

• bilateral aid

  foreign aid given by one country to another

  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'

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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.