working unilaterally

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "working unilaterally" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone is acting independently or making decisions without consulting others. Example: "The manager decided to implement the new policy while working unilaterally, without seeking input from the team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

That official said the United States was "working unilaterally, regionally and internationally in order to try to build a broad-based approach to how to respond to the need to increase pressure on the regime".

The New York Times

In all these exercises, the load is more concentrated on the patellar tendon, working unilaterally with inertial resistance to emphasize in the eccentric work and the eccentric – concentric transition as well.

Journal of Experimental Orthopaedics

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Each chamber worked unilaterally in passing many one-house bills.

The New York Times

The back muscles can work unilaterally or bilaterally.

Huffington Post

When we're off balance, they work unilaterally, which means that the muscles on one side of the spine are working harder than the muscles on the other side.

Huffington Post

Examples include reductions in the administrative procedures required for conducting collective dismissals in Belarus, Central African Republic and Georgia or simplifications of the requirements needed for employers to modify working hours unilaterally in Greece, Lithuania and Poland (see Fig. 4).

IZA Journal of Labor Policy

The national security adviser for the Philippines, Roilo Golez, was reported as saying that "governments must work together, not act unilaterally".

The New York Times

And if Washington and others do balk at working with Russia, Putin may feel he is freer to act unilaterally, or through an alliance with Iran and others.

The New Yorker

While we will not hesitate to act unilaterally when necessary, it is essential that we work closely with our allies and partners to enhance America's influence and security – as well as global security.

The New York Times

She worked as a White House lawyer during the Clinton administration, when it was facing off against a hostile Congress and seeking ways to act unilaterally.

The New York Times

But he can't act unilaterally.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "working unilaterally", ensure that the context clearly justifies the independent action. Consider whether collaboration or consultation would be more appropriate before proceeding alone.

Common error

Avoid using "working unilaterally" when the situation calls for teamwork or shared decision-making. Using the phrase in such scenarios can imply a disregard for others' opinions and can damage professional relationships.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "working unilaterally" functions as a gerund phrase, typically used as a noun, often describing a method or approach. As Ludwig AI reports, it describes situations where actions are performed independently. It's akin to saying "acting alone**.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "working unilaterally" is a grammatically sound gerund phrase that describes independent action without collaboration. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It is used in contexts such as news and media and science. While the phrase itself is correct, it is important to consider the situation before using it, as relying too heavily on "working unilaterally" when collaboration is needed can damage relationships. Alternatives such as "working independently" or "acting alone" can be used depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

working independently

Emphasizes the aspect of autonomy and self-reliance in the work process.

working alone

Highlights the absence of others during the work, focusing on the solitary aspect.

working autonomously

Stresses the self-governed and independent nature of the work being done.

acting unilaterally

Shifts the focus from the work process to the act of making decisions and taking actions without consulting others.

operating independently

Similar to "working independently", but might suggest a broader scope of action, potentially encompassing entire projects or operations.

going it alone

An informal expression emphasizing the decision to proceed without help or collaboration.

taking solo action

Emphasizes the individual nature of the action taken, particularly in situations where collaboration might be expected.

acting solo

Highlights the absence of partners or team members while performing a task.

proceeding without consultation

Emphasizes the lack of input or approval from others before acting.

working in isolation

Stresses the isolated environment of the work, potentially implying a lack of communication or support.

FAQs

What does "working unilaterally" mean?

The phrase "working unilaterally" describes a situation where someone is working independently and making decisions without consulting others or seeking their input. It implies a lack of collaboration.

When is it appropriate to "work unilaterally"?

It's appropriate to "work unilaterally" when you have the authority to make decisions on your own, when speed is critical, or when collaboration is impractical. However, consider the impact on others and the potential benefits of collaboration before proceeding.

What can I say instead of "working unilaterally"?

You can use alternatives like "working independently", "acting alone", or "operating independently" depending on the context.

What is the difference between "working unilaterally" and "working independently"?

"Working unilaterally" emphasizes the lack of consultation or agreement with others, while "working independently" simply means working without direct supervision or assistance. The former can sometimes carry a negative connotation, implying a disregard for others' opinions.