Translation guide
The practice or policy of acting alone, without agreement or involvement of others. In Japanese, this is expressed through specific political terms, descriptive phrases, and related concepts of one-sided action.
That country's unilateralism was criticized by the international community.
Literally 'one-country-ism'. Used in political discourse to describe a nation prioritizing its own interests over international cooperation.
Unilateralist policies create friction with allies.
Direct loanword from English. Used mainly in academic or specialized political analysis.
The rise of unilateralism is shaking the international order.
Acting or deciding without consulting others, in general contexts beyond politics.
Common phrase meaning 'one-sided action'. Used in everyday situations when someone acts without agreement.
The team was perplexed by his unilateral actions.
To decide arbitrarily or on one's own authority. Emphasizes lack of consultation.
To proceed selfishly or willfully. Carries a negative nuance of ignoring others' opinions.
A formal announcement made by one party without agreement from others.
Directly translating 'unilateralism' as ユニラテラリズム is rare outside academic writing. In everyday Japanese, describe the action as 一方的 (one-sided) or 独断 (arbitrary) instead.
単独行動主義 focuses on the method of acting alone, while 一国主義 emphasizes national self-interest. The former is more neutral; the latter often carries a critical tone.
There was dissatisfaction with the policy the boss decided unilaterally.
She always pushes projects forward unilaterally.
The unilateral announcement caused confusion.