Definition

Adjective: - Not arbitrary; not based on mere personal preference, whim, or chance: Describes something that is based on objective criteria, logic, rules, or systematic principles, rather than being random or subject to individual discretion.

Usage and Examples

The adjective nonarbitrary is used to qualify decisions, rules, criteria, methods, or classifications that are determined by objective standards.

• Describing a rule or standard:

  • The selection process was nonarbitrary, based solely on academic merit and test scores.
  • A nonarbitrary line must be drawn to define the legal age of majority.

• Describing a method or classification:

  • Scientists strive to create nonarbitrary categories for newly discovered species.
  • The study used a nonarbitrary sampling technique to ensure representative results.

Advanced Usage

• In legal and philosophical contexts: The term is often used to argue for the fairness or legitimacy of a rule by emphasizing its objective foundation.
  • The court demanded a nonarbitrary justification for the differential treatment.
• In contrast to "arbitrary": It is frequently used to explicitly deny arbitrariness.
  • The connection between the symbol and its meaning is nonarbitrary; it is based on a long cultural tradition.

Variants and Related Words

• Arbitrary (adj): Based on random choice or personal whim, rather than any reason or system. (Antonym)
• Systematic (adj): Done or acting according to a fixed plan or system; methodical.
• Objective (adj): Not influenced by personal feelings or opinions in considering and representing facts.
• Deterministic (adj): Relating to the philosophical doctrine that all events, including human action, are ultimately determined by causes external to the will.

Synonyms

• Objective
• Systematic
• Principled
• Rule-governed
• Rational

Antonyms

• Arbitrary
• Capricious
• Random
• Subjective
• Whimsical

Adjective

1. not subject to individual determination