Question

What is unilateral and bilateral with example?

Answer 1

The terms "unilateral" and "bilateral" are often used to describe the number of parties involved in an action or situation. Here's an explanation of each:

1. Unilateral  

"Unilateral" refers to something that is done by one party alone, without the involvement or agreement of others. In a unilateral action, only one side is involved.

Example of Unilateral:

1. A unilateral decision: Imagine a manager who decides to implement a new rule in the workplace without consulting the employees. This is a unilateral decision because only the manager is involved in the decision-making process, not the employees.
   

1. Unilateral contract: A reward offer for finding a lost dog. The person offering the reward (say, the dog's owner) is making a promise that they will pay the reward if someone finds the dog. The person who finds the dog doesn’t have to agree to anything, but if they return the dog, the owner must fulfill their promise.
   

2. Bilateral  

"Bilateral" refers to something that involves two parties, often in mutual agreement. Both sides participate or benefit from the action.

Example of Bilateral:

1. Bilateral agreement: In international relations, two countries might sign a trade agreement, agreeing to exchange goods under certain conditions. Both countries are involved in the agreement, and both benefit from it.
   

1. Bilateral contract: A common example is when two people agree to exchange services, such as one person agreeing to mow the other's lawn in exchange for a set amount of money. Both parties have obligations, and both must agree to the contract.
   

In summary, unilateral involves one party, while bilateral involves two parties.