Arbitrarily: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when actions or decisions are made without any set rules, logic, or fairness.

• The manager arbitrarily decided to change everyone's work shifts.

Used to describe actions or decisions made without a predictable pattern or order, often purely by chance.

• I randomly picked a book off the shelf.

This adverb is used when actions or decisions are driven by sudden and unpredictable changes in mood or behavior, often without a good reason. It has a slightly negative connotation.

• She was known to change her mind capriciously, making it hard to plan anything.

Applicable when something is done in a way that is unorganized or not planned, often leading to unpredictable results.

• Books were scattered haphazardly across the table.

Used when describing actions or decisions made without any specific reason or pattern, often implying a lack of fairness or logic.

• The manager arbitrarily changed the schedule without telling anyone.
• The awards were given out arbitrarily, with no clear criteria.

Used when someone demands or expects too much, beyond what is considered acceptable or sensible, often implying a lack of fairness.

• She made unreasonably high demands during the negotiation.
• The price for the service was unreasonably high.

Used when something is not done in a just or equitable manner, implying bias or favoritism, often perceived negatively.

• He was unfairly blamed for the mistake.
• The rules were applied unfairly to different people.

Used when someone acts without logical reason, often driven by emotion or impulse, rather than reason.

• She reacted irrationally when she saw the spider.
• He spent his money irrationally, buying things he didn't need.