The word arbitrary is often used to describe something that is not based on any specific reason or rule. It is a term that is commonly used in legal, political, and social contexts. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of arbitrary, its origin, and its associations.
Definitions
The term arbitrary is often used to describe something that is based on personal preference or whim rather than on any objective criteria. It can also refer to something that is not based on any specific rule or law. In legal terms, arbitrary means that a decision is made without any legal basis or justification.
Origin
The word arbitrary comes from the Latin word arbitrarius, which means “depending on the judgment of an arbiter.” An arbiter is a person who has the power to make a decision, usually in a legal or political context. The word arbitrary has been used in English since the 14th century.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The meaning of arbitrary can vary slightly depending on the dictionary. According to the Oxford English Dictionary, arbitrary means “based on random choice or personal whim, rather than any reason or system.” Merriam-Webster defines arbitrary as “not restrained or limited in the exercise of power.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines arbitrary as “based on chance rather than being planned or based on reason.”
Associations
Arbitrary is often associated with the idea of randomness or unpredictability. It can also be associated with the idea of unfairness, as decisions that are made arbitrarily may not be based on any objective criteria. In legal contexts, arbitrary decisions may be seen as a violation of due process or the rule of law.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of arbitrary include capricious, whimsical, random, and unpredictable. These words all convey the idea of something that is not based on any specific rule or reason.
Antonyms
Antonyms of arbitrary include reasonable, just, and fair. These words convey the idea of decisions that are based on objective criteria and are not influenced by personal preference or whim.
The same root words
The root word of arbitrary is arbiter, which means “a person who has the power to make a decision.” Other words that share this root include arbitration, which refers to the process of resolving a dispute through a neutral third party, and arbitrate, which means to act as an arbiter or mediator.
Example Sentences
- The decision to fire the employee was arbitrary and unfair.
- The rules for the contest seemed arbitrary and were not clearly explained.
- The judge’s ruling was based on arbitrary factors rather than the evidence presented in court.
- The company’s policy on promotions seemed arbitrary and was not based on any specific criteria.
- The coach’s decision to bench the star player seemed arbitrary and was not explained to the team.