arbitrary choice

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "arbitrary choice" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a decision made without any specific reason or criteria, often implying randomness or lack of justification. Example: "The selection of the winner seemed like an arbitrary choice, as there were no clear criteria for judging."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Some arbitrary choice they made.

The Guardian

But it's not an arbitrary choice.

The New York Times - Magazine

There is an element of arbitrary choice either way.

The New York Times

True lengths are set off along the receding axis as an arbitrary choice.

Britannica

Within this grouping, the domains are ordered alphabetically (which is an arbitrary choice).

University of California, Berkeley

But Dr. Pimm said the multiple of 10 was an arbitrary choice.

The New York Times

Arbitrary choice of analyses and an overemphasis on random extremes might affect the reported findings.

The Lancet

This means that the original definitions rest on an arbitrary choice of group structure.

Journal of Statistical Planning and Inference

In this report we point out that it is possible to avoid this arbitrary choice entirely.

Journal of Computational Physics

However, this prediction is associated with a large variance and depends on the somewhat arbitrary choice of the problem class.

Artificial Intelligence

They are all designed to fool you into making an arbitrary choice.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "arbitrary choice", ensure the context clearly indicates the lack of a specific or logical reason for the decision. This helps avoid confusion and emphasizes the randomness or subjectivity involved.

Common error

Avoid using "arbitrary choice" when a decision, although seemingly random, is actually based on subtle or unstated criteria. Misusing the phrase can undermine the perceived validity of the decision-making process.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "arbitrary choice" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a decision or selection made without a clear or justifiable reason. As Ludwig AI confirms, it denotes a lack of objective criteria.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

44%

News & Media

24%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "arbitrary choice" is a common noun phrase used to describe decisions or selections made without a discernible reason or system. As Ludwig AI validates, it's grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, ranging from science and academia to news and media. Usage patterns show its frequent occurrence in scientific discourse, indicating its role in discussing research methodologies and experimental design. When employing this phrase, ensure the context accurately reflects the absence of clear justification to maintain clarity and precision. While alternatives like "random selection" and "subjective decision" offer similar meanings, "arbitrary choice" specifically highlights the lack of rationale behind the decision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

random selection

Focuses on the randomness of the selection process, emphasizing the lack of a predetermined pattern or reason.

subjective decision

Highlights the personal and opinion-based nature of the decision, rather than objective criteria.

capricious decision

Emphasizes the impulsive and unpredictable nature of the decision, suggesting a lack of careful consideration.

unreasoned choice

Directly points out the absence of logical reasoning or justification in the decision-making process.

discretionary pick

Indicates a choice made based on individual judgment and freedom to decide, without strict rules.

unguided preference

Highlights the lack of external guidance or objective criteria influencing the choice.

chance determination

Focuses on the role of chance or luck in determining the outcome, rather than deliberate selection.

haphazard selection

Implies a lack of organization or planning in the selection process, suggesting randomness.

unjustified selection

Stresses the lack of a valid reason or explanation for the choice made.

whimsical selection

Suggests a decision based on a sudden desire or impulse, often without a practical reason.

FAQs

How can I use "arbitrary choice" in a sentence?

You can use "arbitrary choice" to describe a decision made without any apparent reason or system. For example: "The selection of team members appeared to be an "arbitrary choice", as there were no clear criteria for selection."

What are some alternatives to "arbitrary choice"?

Alternatives include "random selection", "subjective decision", or "capricious decision". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "arbitrary choice" the same as "random choice"?

While similar, "arbitrary choice" emphasizes the lack of a specific reason, whereas "random choice" focuses on the unpredictability and absence of a pattern.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "arbitrary choice"?

It is appropriate when describing a decision or selection process that lacks clear justification or rationale and appears to be based on personal preference or chance.