adv
Uncommon
arbitrarily
Arbitrarily (adv) means In a way that is based on random choice or personal whim rather than any clear reason or system. Example: “The prizes were handed out arbitrarily, with no clear criteria.”
adv
1
In a way that is based on random choice or personal whim rather than any clear reason or system.
"The prizes were handed out arbitrarily, with no clear criteria."
"He arbitrarily decided that Fridays would be casual dress days."
How to use arbitrarily
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishDone randomly or on a whim, without a clear reason or rule behind it.
Common pairings
chosen arbitrarily
arbitrarily assigned
decide arbitrarily
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more arbitrarily
- Superlative
- most arbitrarily
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The prizes were handed out _____, with no clear criteria.
Etymology
From "arbitrary" plus the adverb-forming suffix "-ly".
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for arbitrarily
See all rhymes for arbitrarily →Frequently asked questions
What does “arbitrarily” mean?
The word “arbitrarily” means in a way that is based on random choice or personal whim rather than any clear reason or system. In plain terms, done randomly or on a whim, without a clear reason or rule behind it.
How do you use “arbitrarily” in a sentence?
Here is “arbitrarily” used in a sentence: “The prizes were handed out arbitrarily, with no clear criteria.”
What part of speech is “arbitrarily”?
“Arbitrarily” is an adverb.
Is “arbitrarily” a common word?
“Arbitrarily” is an uncommon word in modern English.
