Arbitrary means based on one's own individual decision or preference rather than on any objective criteria or reason. It can also mean lacking in logic or reasoning, or not based on a fixed rule or law.

When to use it

People use 'arbitrary' to describe things that are based on random decisions or personal opinions, rather than on any logical or objective reasoning. It can be used in various contexts, such as:

  1. Arbitrary rules, regulations, or laws that seem unjustified or unfair.
  2. Arbitrary deadlines or targets that are not based on any real need or justification.
  3. Arbitrary distinctions or classifications that are based on subjective preferences rather than objective criteria.
  4. Arbitrary assignments or allocations that are not justified by any objective criteria or merit.
  5. Arbitrary decisions or actions that are not based on any rational or logical reasoning.

Example sentences

  1. The teacher's decision was arbitrary and lacked any clear reasoning.
  2. The company's new dress code policy seemed arbitrary and unfair to many employees.
  3. The judge's ruling seemed arbitrary and did not align with precedent.
  4. The restaurant's pricing system seemed arbitrary and confusing to many customers.
  5. The coach's decision to bench the star player seemed arbitrary and caused controversy.
  6. The city's parking regulations seemed arbitrary and difficult to follow.
  7. The school's attendance policy seemed arbitrary and did not take into account individual circumstances.
  8. The airline's baggage allowance policy seemed arbitrary and varied from flight to flight.
  9. The government's decision to increase taxes on a specific industry seemed arbitrary and discriminatory.
  10. The dress designer's choice of color schemes seemed arbitrary and did not match the season.

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Reference:

arbitrary
1. based on chance rather than being planned or based on reason: 2. using…
Definition of arbitrary | Dictionary.com
The definition of Arbitrary is subject to individual will or judgment without restriction; contingent solely upon one’s discretion. See additional meanings and similar words.