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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.

A Scottish activist who has spent eight years in "arbitrary detention" in India is enduring "a form of psychological torture", United Nations experts have said.

From BBC • Apr. 22, 2026

Ma suspects the real reason is because “as the monopoly operator of long-distance transmission, State Grid can impose arbitrary fees.”

From Barron's • Apr. 14, 2026

He found the work boring, subject to arbitrary management dictates and not satisfactorily remunerative.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 12, 2026

“It’s an arbitrary threshold that serves a few purposes.”

From MarketWatch • Apr. 10, 2026

"It is too complicated. It has too many arbitrary parameters," Lederman said.

From "A Short History of Nearly Everything" by Bill Bryson

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