Conclusion
Arbitrariness is a word that is often used to describe actions or decisions that are made without any basis or justification. The term “arbitrarily” is used to describe such actions or decisions, and it is an important concept in law, philosophy, and politics. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of “arbitrarily,” its origin, and its associations.
Definitions
The term “arbitrarily” refers to actions or decisions that are made without any basis or justification. It can also mean acting in a random or unpredictable way. The word “arbitrary” is derived from the Latin word “arbitrarius,” which means “dependent on the will of the arbiter.”
Origin
The word “arbitrary” comes from the Latin word “arbitrarius,” which means “dependent on the will of the arbiter.” The term was first used in English in the 16th century to describe decisions made by an arbiter, or a person who has the power to make a final decision.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, “arbitrarily” means “based on or subject to individual discretion or preference without restriction or guidance.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “based on random choice or personal whim, rather than any reason or system.”
Associations
Arbitrariness is often associated with injustice, as decisions made without any basis or justification can be unfair and arbitrary. It is also associated with authoritarianism, as rulers who make decisions without any basis or justification are often seen as arbitrary and capricious.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for “arbitrarily” include randomly, capriciously, and whimsically.
Antonyms
Some antonyms for “arbitrarily” include justifiably, reasonably, and logically.
The same root words
The word “arbitrary” shares the same root as the word “arbiter,” which refers to a person who has the power to make a final decision.
Example Sentences
- The decision to fire the employee was made arbitrarily, without any basis or justification.
- The dictator ruled arbitrarily, making decisions without any regard for the rights of his citizens.
- The teacher graded the papers arbitrarily, without following any set criteria.
In conclusion, “arbitrarily” is a word that describes actions or decisions made without any basis or justification. It is often associated with injustice and authoritarianism, and is an important concept in law, philosophy, and politics. By understanding the meaning and associations of “arbitrarily,” we can better understand the importance of making decisions that are based on reason and logic.