Synonyms for arbitrary
ˈɑr bɪˌtrɛr iar·bi·tra·ry

English Synonyms and AntonymsRate these synonyms:2.0 / 2 votes

1. arbitrary

   In the strict sense, absolute, free from all limitation or control, and supreme, superior to all, can not properly be said of any being except the divine. Both words are used, however, in a modified sense, of human authorities; absolute then signifying free from limitation by other authority, and supreme exalted over all other; as, an absolute monarch, the supreme court. Absolute, in this use, does not necessarily carry any unfavorable sense, but as absolute power in human hands is always abused, the unfavorable meaning predominates. Autocratic power knows no limits outside the ruler's self; arbitrary power, none outside the ruler's will or judgment, arbitrary carrying the implication of wilfulness and capriciousness. Despotic is commonly applied to a masterful or severe use of power, which is expressed more decidedly by tyrannical. Arbitrary may be used in a good sense; as, the pronunciation of proper names is arbitrary; but the bad sense is the prevailing one; as, an arbitrary proceeding. Irresponsible power is not necessarily bad, but eminently dangerous; an executor or trustee should not be irresponsible; an irresponsible ruler is likely to be tyrannical. A perfect ruler might be irresponsible and not tyrannical. Authoritative is used always in a good sense, implying the right to claim authority; imperative, peremptory, and positive are used ordinarily in the good sense; as, an authoritative definition; an imperative demand; a peremptory command; positive instructions; imperious signifies assuming and determined to command, rigorously requiring obedience. An imperious demand or requirement may have in it nothing offensive; it is simply one that resolutely insists upon compliance, and will not brook refusal; an arrogant demand is offensive by its tone of superiority, an arbitrary demand by its unreasonableness; an imperious disposition is liable to become arbitrary and arrogant. A person of an independent spirit is inclined to resent an imperious manner in any one, especially in one whose superiority is not clearly recognized. Commanding is always used in a good sense; as, a commanding appearance; a commanding eminence. Compare DOGMATIC; INFINITE; PERFECT.

   Synonyms:
   absolute, arrogant, authoritative, autocratic, coercive, commanding, compulsive, compulsory, controlling, despotic, dictatorial, dogmatic, domineering, exacting, haughty, imperative, imperious, irresponsible, lordly, overbearing, peremptory, positive, supreme, tyrannical, unconditional, unequivocal

   Antonyms:
   accountable, complaisant, compliant, conditional, constitutional, contingent, docile, ductile, gentle, humble, lenient, limited, lowly, meek, mild, responsible, submissive, yielding

Complete Dictionary of Synonyms and AntonymsRate these synonyms:3.0 / 2 votes

1. arbitrary

   Synonyms:
   tyrannical, harsh, dictatorial, imperious, bearing, overbearing, selfish, absolute, irresponsible, tyrannous, domineering, peremptory

   Antonyms:
   mild, modest, lenient, considerate, obliging, limited, equitable, constitutional

Princeton's WordNetRate these antonyms:4.0 / 1 vote

1. arbitraryadjective

   based on or subject to individual discretion or preference or sometimes impulse or caprice

   "an arbitrary decision"; "the arbitrary rule of a dictator"; "an arbitrary penalty"; "of arbitrary size and shape"; "an arbitrary choice"; "arbitrary division of the group into halves"

   Antonyms:
   unarbitrary, nonarbitrary, prescribed

Dictionary of English SynonymesRate these synonyms:5.0 / 1 vote

1. arbitraryadjective

   Synonyms:
   irresponsible, absolute, tyrannical, tyrannous, imperious, domineering, bound by no law

2. arbitraryadjective

   Synonyms:
   optional, voluntary, determined by no rule or principle

Synonyms, Antonyms & Associated WordsRate these synonyms:0.0 / 0 votes

1. arbitraryadjective

   Synonyms:
   tyrannical, absolute, imperious, unrestrained, dictatorial

PPDB, the paraphrase databaseRate these paraphrases:0.0 / 0 votes

1. List of paraphrases for "arbitrary":

   arbitrariness, capricious, arbitrarily, indiscriminate, random, wanton, abusive, high-handed

How to pronounce arbitrary?

How to say arbitrary in sign language?

Usage in printed sourcesFrom: 

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Words popularity by usage frequency

How to use arbitrary in a sentence?

1. The Sao Paulo-based Lula Institute:

   It is a completely irregular, untimely and unjustified procedure, we will take all the necessary legal measures to correct this arbitrary act.

2. Sidy Diagne:

   This is the victory of law over power, the victory of law over the arbitrary.

3. Juan Manuel:

   Annulling the legislative power with an arbitrary decision is unacceptable, this clearly destroys the most important column of any democracy: representation of the people.

4. Jeanne Shaheen:

   We have worked for two decades alongside our allies to advance the rights of not just women and girls, but other ethnic minorities in Afghanistan. And we can't let those two decades of hard work be ignored in peace talks. We owe it to the women and girls to ensure that their hard-fought rights are preserved, sadly, I believe an arbitrary deadline for... our withdrawal of forces in Afghanistan risks those efforts.

5. Steve Trent:

   This cannot be an arbitrary kangaroo court just driven to please the international community at this key time for Thailand. It's got to bring people justice.