Arbitrary

/ˈɑːr.bɪ.trer.i/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Based on random choice or personal whim, rather than any reason or system.

The decision to cut funding seemed arbitrary, without justification or explanation.

Existing or coming about seemingly at random or by chance.

The rules appeared arbitrary and unfair to the players.

Having unlimited power; capricious; despotic.

The leader's arbitrary actions were met with resistance from the citizens.

Late Latin 'arbitrarius' meaning 'determined by choice', from 'arbiter' meaning 'judge'.

arbitrary decision

A decision made based on personal opinion rather than any objective criteria.

arbitrary rule

A rule or regulation that seems unjust or based on random choice.

arbitrary limits

Limits set without any logical reasoning.

arbitrate

To reach an authoritative judgment or settlement.

arbitration

The use of an arbitrator to settle a dispute.

arbitrariness

The quality of being based on random choice rather than any reason.

Totally random or without explanation.

That policy change was so arbitrary; no one saw it coming.

Made up on the spot.

His justification for the curfew felt arbitrary and out of nowhere.