RANDOM Synonyms: 71 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'random' distinct from other similar adjectives?

The words casual and haphazard are common synonyms of random . While all three words mean "determined by accident rather than design," random stresses lack of definite aim, fixed goal, or regular procedure. // a random selection of books

Q: When is 'casual' a more appropriate choice than 'random'?

While in some cases nearly identical to random , casual suggests working or acting without deliberation, intention, or purpose. // a casual collector

Q: When is it sensible to use 'haphazard' instead of 'random'?

Although the words haphazard and random have much in common, haphazard applies to what is done without regard for regularity or fitness or ultimate consequence. // a haphazard collection of rocks

random

adjective

ˈran-dəm

Definition of random next

as in scattered

lacking a definite plan, purpose, or pattern since we were new in town, our choice of a vet for our dog was entirely random

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word random distinct from other similar adjectives?

The words casual and haphazard are common synonyms of random. While all three words mean "determined by accident rather than design," random stresses lack of definite aim, fixed goal, or regular procedure.

a random selection of books

When is casual a more appropriate choice than random?

While in some cases nearly identical to random, casual suggests working or acting without deliberation, intention, or purpose.

a casual collector

When is it sensible to use haphazard instead of random?

Although the words haphazard and random have much in common, haphazard applies to what is done without regard for regularity or fitness or ultimate consequence.

a haphazard collection of rocks

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of random Mandira and Mallika trade barbs or giggle together maniacally, seemingly at random, or it’s all revealed to be a dream. —

Anupama Chopra, The Hollywood Reporter, 5 Nov. 2024 Elon Musk's attorney argued in a Philadelphia courtroom Monday that the tech mogul's $1 million-a-day sweepstakes winners are not chosen at random but instead are earning payment for acting as a spokesperson, multiple outletsreported. —

Avery Lotz, Axios, 4 Nov. 2024 Police are investigating whether the victims were random or known to the suspect. —

Dalia Faheid, CNN, 2 Nov. 2024 According to the website of California Secretary of State Shirly Weber, who is responsible for overseeing elections in the Golden State, the ballot order is determined by letters being selected at random. —

Gordon G. Chang, Newsweek, 1 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for random

Recent Examples of Synonyms for random

Adjective

This push to start campaigns earlier is not arbitrary.

Kate Hardcastle, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024
Expiration dates are somewhat arbitrary The US Food and Drug Administration only began requiring drug manufacturers to put an expiration date on medications in 1979.

Keren Landman, Vox, 4 Nov. 2024