Definition

1. Adverb:
   • In a manner based on random choice or personal whim, rather than any reason or system: The core meaning describes an action done without a clear, logical, or fair basis. It implies a lack of objective criteria or predictable rules.
   • In an autocratic or dictatorial manner: This meaning relates to using power without justification or consultation, often in a way that seems unfair or unreasonable.

Usage Examples

• Adverb:
  • The manager arbitrarily decided to change the schedule without consulting the team. (This shows a decision made by personal whim, not reason.)
  • Names were selected arbitrarily from the list. (This indicates a random, unsystematic selection.)
  • The law should not be applied arbitrarily; it must be consistent for everyone. (This highlights the unfairness of an action without a fixed standard.)

Advanced Usage

• "Arbitrarily assigned": Given or allocated without a logical or fair system.
  • The test groups were arbitrarily assigned, which may affect the study's results.
• "Arbitrarily chosen": Selected on a random or subjective basis.
  • The starting point was an arbitrarily chosen number.
• "Act arbitrarily": To behave or make decisions in a way that ignores rules or fairness.
  • A leader who acts arbitrarily will quickly lose the trust of the people.

Variants and Related Words

• Arbitrary (adj): Based on random choice or personal whim, not reason or logic.
  • The arbitrary rules made no sense to anyone.
• Arbitrariness (n): The quality of being based on random choice or personal whim.
  • The arbitrariness of the decision was widely criticized.

Synonyms

• Randomly: In a way without a definite aim, pattern, or rule.
• Capriciously: In a sudden and unaccountable change of mood or behavior.
• Whimsically: In a playful or fanciful manner, especially in an unpredictable way.
• Haphazardly: In a manner lacking any obvious principle of organization.

Antonyms

• Systematically: In a methodical and organized manner.
• Logically: In a way based on clear, sound reasoning.
• Reasonably: In a fair and sensible way.
• Methodically: In a very ordered and systematic way.

Adverb

1. in a random manner
   • the houses were randomly scattered
   • bullets were fired into the crowd at random