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Showing results for arbitrary. Search instead for nonarbitrari.
Definitions

arbitrary

[ahr-bi-trer-ee] / ˈɑr bɪˌtrɛr i /
ADJECTIVE
whimsical, chance
Synonyms
STRONGEST
capricious discretionary erratic frivolous inconsistent irrational irresponsible random subjective unreasonable willful
WEAK
approximate fanciful injudicious offhand optional supercilious superficial unaccountable unscientific wayward
Antonyms
STRONGEST
consistent definite dependable logical reasonable regular reliable sensible steady unchanging
WEAK
circumspect democratic rational reasoned supported
ADJECTIVE
dictatorial
Synonyms
STRONGEST
autocratic
WEAK
absolute bossy despotic dogmatic domineering downright flat out high-handed imperious magisterial monocratic no ifs ands or buts no joke overbearing peremptory straight out summary tyrannical tyrannous
Antonyms
WEAK
circumspect democratic rational reasonable reasoned supported

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.

District Judge Kevin Castel sided with the department on these grounds, holding that the courthouse arrests were not unlawfully arbitrary.

From Slate • Mar. 27, 2026

Brendan O'Hara, vice chair of the all-parliamentary group for arbitrary detention and hostage affairs, previously told the BBC the Foremans were "innocent victims of a geopolitical power struggle".

From BBC • Mar. 26, 2026

“Bad years for the S&P 500 are due to very specific factors, not just bad luck or arbitrary changes in investor sentiment,” said Nicholas Colas, co-founder of DataTrek, in commentary shared with MarketWatch on Tuesday.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 24, 2026

She has been extremely active in denouncing corruption, illegalities, arbitrary actions by the authorities, and human rights violations.

From Barron's • Mar. 19, 2026

This explains the fact that in some places the frontiers between the superstates are arbitrary.

From "1984" by George Orwell