adj C2 Proficient

haphazard

hap-HAZ-uhd

Haphazard (adj) means Done without any clear plan or order; disorganized and random. Example: “The files were stored in a haphazard pile with no labels at all.”

adj

Done without any clear plan or order; disorganized and random.

"The files were stored in a haphazard pile with no labels at all."

"Their haphazard approach to budgeting left them constantly short of cash."

How to use haphazard

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishDisorganized, random, thrown together without a real plan.

Common pairings

a haphazard approach in a haphazard way haphazard arrangement

Word forms

more haphazard comparative, more haphazard comparative, haphazards plural, most haphazard superlative, most haphazard superlative

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The files were stored in a _____ pile with no labels at all.

Etymology

From hap ("chance, luck") plus hazard, both words carrying the idea of randomness.

Rhymes for haphazard

hazard biohazard

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Frequently asked questions

What does “haphazard” mean?

The word “haphazard” means done without any clear plan or order; disorganized and random. In plain terms, disorganized, random, thrown together without a real plan.

How do you pronounce “haphazard”?

“Haphazard” is pronounced hap-HAZ-uhd (/(ˌ)hæpˈhæz.ɚd/ in IPA).

How do you use “haphazard” in a sentence?

Here is “haphazard” used in a sentence: “The files were stored in a haphazard pile with no labels at all.”

What part of speech is “haphazard”?

“Haphazard” is an adjective.

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