Question

Choose the word/ phrase which is opposite in meaning to the bold word/ phrase in the sentence.
The decision to stop firing across the border was a unilateral one.

Option a- Collective
Option b- Bilateral
Option c- Multilateral
Option d- Multiple

Answer 1

Hint: An opposite or an antonym refers to a word that is contrary in meaning to another word. Example- Dangerous is an antonym of harmless. ‘Unilateral’ refers to an action or a decision that lacks mutual agreement and affects only one group or person.

Complete answer:

The word ‘unilateral’ was derived in the early 19th century from a Latin word.
We know the meaning and the origin of the word ‘unilateral’. Now, let’s look at its usage-
Example- The husband’s unilateral decisions end up causing an argument between the couple. Here, we can conclude that the husband, ‘X’ tends to make decisions on his own, ending up causing arguments between him and his wife.
Let’s examine the given options-
Option a- ‘Collective’ refers to a number of people or things that are considered as a whole or a group. Example- The villagers decided to organize a collective feast. ‘Collective’ is different in meaning to unilateral. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option b- ‘Bilateral’ refers to a decision or an action that is taken mutually and affects both the sides or groups. Example- The judge decided on a bilateral hearing to avoid miscommunication. ‘Bilateral’ is opposite in meaning to unilateral. Hence, it is the correct option.
Option c- ‘Multilateral’ refers to a decision or action that is agreed upon by three or more groups or sides. Example- The WHO supports multilateral negotiations. ‘Multilateral’ is different in meaning to unilateral. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
Option d- ‘Multiple’ refers to something that has numerous or various parts or sides. Example- I have multiple pens in my box. ‘Multiple’ is different in meaning to unilateral. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
So, the correct answer is “Option b”.

Note: Carefully read the meaning of the given word and its options. Thereafter, choose the negative word. Some commonly known antonyms of ‘unilateral’ are many-sided, joint, shared, etc.