arbitrary — based on random choice or personal whim, rather than any reason or system
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: based on random choice or personal whim, rather than any reason or system
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈɑːrbɪtreri/
Example Sentences
- The boss fired employees with arbitrary reasons like 'I don't like your shoes.'
- Setting the meeting time by flipping a coin seems rather arbitrary.
- The arbitrary speed limit changes every few miles on this highway.
arbitrary
ADJECTIVE[/ˈɑːrbɪtreri/]
based on random choice or personal whim, rather than any reason or system
The teacher picked a student by arbitrary choice instead of drawing names fairly.
The referee's arbitrary decision upset both teams. (arbitrary → "Just because!")
The arbitrary rule was removed because it was not necessary for ordinary people.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin 'arbitrarius' meaning 'dependent on the will or decision of an arbiter,' derived from 'arbiter' (judge or decision-maker). The word entered English in the 15th century via Old French.
Breakdown
arbiter (judge/decision-maker) + -ary (adjective suffix meaning 'relating to') = arbitrary (based on personal decision rather than reason)
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The boss fired employees with arbitrary reasons like 'I don't like your shoes.'”
“Setting the meeting time by flipping a coin seems rather arbitrary.”
“The arbitrary speed limit changes every few miles on this highway.”
“His arbitrary color choices made the painting look like a rainbow exploded.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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