Arbitrary
Meaning: Based on random choice or personal whim rather than on any reason, rule, or system.
Examples
- Critics called the two-hour cutoff arbitrary, noting that the agency never explained why it chose that limit instead of 90 minutes or three hours.
- Students objected to the arbitrary seating chart, which separated lab partners for no stated reason.
- The rules seemed arbitrary and unfair to the students.
Synonyms and antonyms
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
Memory tip
It comes from arbiter, a judge. An arbitrary decision rests on someone's personal call, not on a rule.
Practice question
Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?
Because the judges never published their scoring criteria, many contestants felt the scores were ______.
Answer: A) arbitrary
With no stated criteria, the scores seemed to have no clear reason or system behind them.
Make “arbitrary” stick
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