arbitrary
/ˈɑːbɪtrəri/ · /ˈɑːrbɪtreri/
CEFR level C1Topic SocietyWord #6841 in the learning path
任意的；无明确依据的
Definitions
adj. based on chance or personal choice rather than clear reasons
任意的；无明确依据的
adj. using power according to personal wishes rather than fair rules
专断的；武断的
Example
Her choice felt arbitrary: she picked without even looking.
她的选择显得很随意：她连看都没看就选了。
Arbitrary restrictions on university admissions can prevent capable students from accessing education and may reinforce existing social inequalities.
大学招生中缺乏合理依据的限制可能让有能力的学生无法入学，并加剧现有的社会不平等。
Collocations
- an arbitrary decision
- an arbitrary limit
- arbitrary power
Word family
- arbitrarily (adv.)
- arbitrariness (n.)
Synonyms
- random
- capricious
Antonyms
- reasoned
Usage tip
重点是缺乏合理依据，不只是“可以自由选择”。
FAQ
- What does arbitrary mean?
- based on chance or personal choice rather than clear reasons using power according to personal wishes rather than fair rules
- How is arbitrary pronounced?
- UK /ˈɑːbɪtrəri/, US /ˈɑːrbɪtreri/. Use the audio buttons above to listen.
