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

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 notes

In plain EnglishDone randomly or on a whim, without a clear reason or rule behind it.

Common pairings

chosen arbitrarily arbitrarily assigned decide arbitrarily

Word Forms

more arbitrarily comparative, most arbitrarily superlative

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The prizes were handed out _____, with no clear criteria.

Etymology

From "arbitrary" plus the adverb-forming suffix "-ly".

Rhymes for arbitrarily

oily lily wily daily gaily Emily doily family Sicily easily bodily verily

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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.