ultimatum

Language: en

🇺🇸 /ˌʌltəˈmeɪtəm/

📖 Definitions

  1. noun
    A final demand or statement of terms, the rejection of which will result in retaliation or a breakdown in relations. It is typically the last in a series of demands or conditions.; A final statement of terms or conditions that must be met, often in a negotiation or dispute, beyond which no further concessions will be made.; In diplomacy, a formal communication from one state to another stating the final terms that must be accepted to avoid hostile action such as war or sanctions.; Any final, non-negotiable demand or condition presented in personal, business, or social contexts, implying consequences if not met.

🔗 Details

Word forms

countable Plural: ultimatums, ultimata

Collocations

issue an ultimatumdeliver an ultimatumgive someone an ultimatumset an ultimatumultimatum expires

Synonyms

demanddiktatmandatefinal offertake-it-or-leave-it

Antonyms

compromisenegotiation

Commonly confused

ultimate
EN: 'Ultimate' is an adjective meaning final or greatest; 'ultimatum' is a noun meaning a final demand with consequences for non-compliance.

Spelling tips

EN: The Latin plural 'ultimata' exists but 'ultimatums' is standard in modern English. Avoid misspelling as 'ultamatum' or 'ultimatium'.

💬 Examples

  1. The government issued an ultimatum to the rebels: surrender within 48 hours or face a full military assault.

  2. The union gave management an ultimatum: accept the new wage proposal by Friday or the workers would go on strike.

  3. Austria-Hungary delivered an ultimatum to Serbia in July 1914, which ultimately contributed to the outbreak of World War I.

  4. She gave her partner an ultimatum: either commit to marriage or end the relationship.