an arbitrary decision

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an arbitrary decision" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a choice made without any specific reason or system, often implying randomness or lack of justification. Example: "The committee's choice to change the meeting date seemed like an arbitrary decision, as there was no clear rationale provided."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

(A smaller group also staged a counter-protest expressing support). Korean-language media have been lambasting the plan, calling it "an arbitrary decision by city government". An anonymous donor cut a check for $20,000 to the Korean American Federation of Los Angeles to push back against it.

Los Angeles Times

But that's an arbitrary decision".

The New York Times - Sports

It is an arbitrary decision at best.

The New Yorker

This was not an arbitrary decision by any means".

The New York Times

"But we're not going to make an arbitrary decision that could throw people out of work".

The New York Times

There is a "clear distinction between an exercise of discretion and an arbitrary decision," he said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

"A less skillful leader," he wrote, "might have forced an early arbitrary decision that would have made the whole task of getting to the moon virtually impossible".

The New York Times - Science

"This case is yet another example of a totally arbitrary decision by a carrier to block text message calls between consumers and organizations they want to communicate with," Gigi Sohn, president of public interest group Public Knowledge, said.

TechCrunch

Noam Chomsky suggests that debating this question is pointless, for it is an essentially arbitrary decision whether to extend common usage of the word think to include machines.

Britannica

The decision to frame the project around Lord of the Flies, however, wasn't an entirely arbitrary decision.

Vice

Even when SAS says no, it earns workers' trust and respect by engaging in a dialogue rather than issuing a seemingly arbitrary decision.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To enhance understanding, follow "an arbitrary decision" with a brief explanation of why the decision seems unfounded or lacks justification, providing context for the reader.

Common error

While "an arbitrary decision" often carries negative connotations of unfairness or capriciousness, sometimes it simply means a decision made without a strong, pre-existing reason. Ensure your usage reflects the intended nuance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an arbitrary decision" functions as a noun phrase, where "arbitrary" modifies the noun "decision". It describes the type or quality of the decision made. According to Ludwig, this phrase is considered grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

35%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Unknown/unmatched sources

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an arbitrary decision" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that describes a choice made without clear reasoning or justification. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its widespread use and acceptability. Its primary function is to highlight the lack of rationale behind a decision, often implying randomness or unfairness. While most common in News & Media and Scientific contexts, it's crucial to remember that its negative connotation isn't always intended; it can simply describe a choice made when no strong reason exists to prefer one option over another. When using this phrase, ensure the context and nuance are carefully considered for clear communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a capricious choice

Emphasizes the impulsive and whimsical nature of the decision.

a random determination

Highlights the lack of pattern or predictability in the decision process.

an unjustified ruling

Focuses on the absence of a legitimate basis for the decision.

a groundless judgment

Stresses the lack of factual or logical support for the decision.

an unreasoned conclusion

Points out the absence of logical thought or deliberation.

an unsupported verdict

Suggests the decision lacks evidence or corroboration.

a subjective assessment

Highlights the personal and potentially biased nature of the decision.

a discretionary call

Emphasizes the authority's freedom to make the decision, but implies it may not be well-founded.

a whimsical preference

Highlights the decision's basis in fleeting or changing desires.

an inconsistent application

Points to a lack of uniformity or adherence to standards in the decision process.

FAQs

How can I use "an arbitrary decision" in a sentence?

You can use "an arbitrary decision" to describe a choice or ruling that lacks a clear rationale or appears to be based on random preference. For example: "The selection of candidates seemed like "an arbitrary decision", as their qualifications were nearly identical".

What's the difference between "an arbitrary decision" and a 'subjective judgment'?

"An arbitrary decision" implies a lack of reason or system, while a 'subjective judgment' suggests a decision based on personal feelings or opinions. A subjective judgment may have some justification, even if it's not universally accepted, whereas "an arbitrary decision" typically has none.

What can I say instead of "an arbitrary decision"?

You can use alternatives like a "capricious choice", a "random determination", or a "subjective assessment" depending on the specific context.

Is it always negative to call something "an arbitrary decision"?

Not always. While often used to criticize choices that seem unfair or illogical, "an arbitrary decision" can also simply describe a selection made when there is no strong reason to prefer one option over another. The connotation depends heavily on context.