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Definitions

arbitrary

[ahr-bi-trer-ee] / ˈɑr bɪˌtrɛr i /




Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

He called his arrest an "arbitrary, capricious prosecution".

From BBC • Jun. 21, 2026

It was established as a safeguard against arbitrary and unlawful imprisonment, so if a judge finds the government’s reasoning insufficient, they hold the power to immediately order the prisoner’s release with sufficient legal grounds.

From Slate • Jun. 18, 2026

All this variance and randomness, all these rules on top of regulations, none of it is exactly arbitrary, but neither is it fair.

From Los Angeles Times • May 27, 2026

The civil code would also allow judges to base some rulings on vaguely defined "good morals" -- a provision Human Rights Watch warned would be "opening the door to arbitrary interpretation".

From Barron's • May 17, 2026

Not absent from the place, the arbitrary square of earth which he had named Sutpen’s Hundred: not that at all.

From "Absalom, Absalom!" by William Faulkner




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