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

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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 Besides the occasional random spider that scuttles indoors, some spiders can live in out-of-the-way spots in your home, such as along ceilings or in basements and behind clutter. —

Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 6 Dec. 2024 They’re not being killed by random strangers—the threat typically hypothesized by fear-mongers. —

Matthew Wills, JSTOR Daily, 6 Dec. 2024 Now, Bandon Dunes is taking an innovative approach to match its distinctive status, introducing a random drawing system for those guests hoping to secure a coveted stay-and-play reservation — not in the coming year, but in 2026. —

Erik Matuszewski, Forbes, 5 Dec. 2024 This shooting may have been random, but there could certainly have been someone who had motivation. —

Chris Isidore, CNN, 5 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for random

Recent Examples of Synonyms for random

Adjective

During a dinner banquet later the same day, Belousov said the two countries’ strategic partnership was crucial to defend their sovereignty from aggression and the arbitrary actions of imperialists, North Korean state media said.

Hyung-Jin Kim, Los Angeles Times, 30 Nov. 2024
After Leung's sentencing, the U.S. recommended -- though without citing specific cases -- that Americans reconsider traveling to China because of arbitrary law enforcement and exit bans and the risk of wrongful detentions.

Democrat-Gazette staff from wire reports, arkansasonline.com, 28 Nov. 2024