Arbitrary

/ˈɑː.bɪ.tɹə.ɹi/ · adjective

Meaning

(usually of a decision) Based on individual discretion or judgment; not based on any objective distinction, perhaps even made at random..

Definitions by Sense

1. (usually of a decision) Based on individual discretion or judgment; not based on any objective distinction, perhaps even made at random.
2. Determined by impulse rather than reason; often connoting heavy-handedness.
3. (mathematics) Any, out of all that are possible.
4. Determined by independent arbiter.
5. (linguistics) Not representative or symbolic; not iconic.
6. Anything arbitrary, such as an arithmetical value or a fee.

Example Sentences

Benjamin Franklin's designation of "positive" and "negative" to different charges was arbitrary.

The decision to use 18 years as the legal age of adulthood was arbitrary, as both age 17 and 19 were reasonable alternatives.

The bromide conforms to everything sanctioned by the majority, and may be depended upon to be trite, banal, and arbitrary.

The equation is true for an arbitrary value of x.

And in this long chain of consistence, a chain stretching from the long dead to the far unborn, the notion of the arbitrary could only survive as the notion of a pre-established arbitrary.

Synonyms for arbitrary

Antonyms for arbitrary

Related Words

Word Forms

• more arbitrary
• most arbitrary
• arbitraries

Usage Notes

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