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.

The rule, she wrote, is “arbitrary and capricious.”

From The Wall Street Journal

Last week, a federal judge struck down that order, calling it “arbitrary and capricious.”

From Los Angeles Times

With changes to tax law, the Dec. 31 deadline has become almost arbitrary, yet people still hew to old habits.

From MarketWatch

An arbitrary cap on interest rates wouldn’t magically render lending safer.

From Barron's

As a somewhat arbitrary demarcation, ringing in a new year sometimes lacks drama—though not this year.

From Barron's