The meaning of ARBITRARY is chosen, decided, etc. seemingly at random or on a whim rather than in a reasoned or methodical way; also : random. How to use arbitrary in a sentence.

ARBITRARY definition: subject to individual will or judgment without restriction; contingent solely upon one's discretion. See examples of arbitrary used in a sentence.

ARBITRARY definition: 1. based on chance rather than being planned or based on reason: 2. using unlimited personal power…. Learn more.

Something that's arbitrary seems like it's chosen at random instead of following a consistent rule. Team members would dislike their coach using a totally arbitrary method to pick starting players.

1. subject to individual will or judgment without restriction; contingent solely upon one's discretion: an arbitrary decision. 2. decided by a judge or arbiter rather than by a law or statute. 3. having unlimited …

(of an action, a decision, a rule, etc.) not seeming to be based on a reason, system or plan and sometimes seeming unfair The choice of players for the team seemed completely arbitrary. He …

Dec 14, 2025 · arbitrary (comparative more arbitrary, superlative most arbitrary) (usually of a decision) Based on individual discretion or judgment; not based on any objective distinction, perhaps even …

ARBITRARY meaning: 1 : not planned or chosen for a particular reason not based on reason or evidence; 2 : done without concern for what is fair or right

Arbitrary definition: Determined by chance, whim, or impulse, and not by necessity, reason, or principle.

If you describe an action, rule, or decision as arbitrary, you think that it is not based on any principle, plan, or system. It often seems unfair because of this.