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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.

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

The A cap seems arbitrary and shifting to A-minuses feels inconsequential, he said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

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

“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

He was very old, every organ in his body had long since betrayed him, and most of his important decisions regarding Florin had a certain arbitrary quality that bothered many of the leading citizens.

From "The Princess Bride" by William Goldman

Vocabulary lists containing arbitrary

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100 SAT Words Beginning with "A"

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The Declaration of Independence

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