arbitrary distinctions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "arbitrary distinctions" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to differences or classifications that are based on random choice or personal whim rather than any reason or system. Example: "The committee's decision was criticized for making arbitrary distinctions between applicants, leading to perceptions of unfairness."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

If you're going to eat flesh, it's pernickety to make arbitrary distinctions between mammals.

The Guardian

He draws arbitrary distinctions between this essence and period details that puzzle or distract contemporary audiences.

The New York Times

The essence of all snobbery, Taylor says, is the making of arbitrary distinctions.

The Guardian - Books

Likewise, managerial decree quickly scrapped arbitrary distinctions between theoretical research and applied research if they stood in the way of getting the job done.

Harvard Business Review

Make managers responsible for sparking creativity and eliminate arbitrary distinctions between "suits" and "creatives". And engage customers as creative partners so you can deliver superior products.

Harvard Business Review

Over‐all, the existing rules set up arbitrary distinctions among classes of apartments and a pressure‐cooker bar gaining atmosphere unfair to owners and tenants alike.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

This feels like an arbitrary distinction.

The Economist

Spies are lurking below the surface, operating in the dark". It is not an arbitrary distinction.

The Guardian

That's an arbitrary distinction that doesn't have a basis in reality.

Harvard University

(Asked if this role marked the turning point between child star and adult actress, she dismissed it as "an arbitrary distinction").

The Guardian

The Koontzes are asking the United States Supreme Court to reject this arbitrary distinction and affirm that a shakedown is a shakedown, no matter what currency it comes in.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "arbitrary distinctions", ensure that the context clearly demonstrates how these distinctions lack a rational or justifiable basis. Providing specific examples can strengthen your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "arbitrary distinctions" as a blanket criticism without providing evidence. Always explain why the distinctions are arbitrary to maintain credibility and clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "arbitrary distinctions" functions as a noun phrase, where "arbitrary" modifies "distinctions". Ludwig indicates its primary role is to describe classifications or differences perceived as lacking logical or objective justification.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

24%

Formal & Business

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

4%

Academia

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "arbitrary distinctions" is a commonly used term to describe classifications or differences that lack a logical or justifiable basis. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts. The frequency of its appearance in news, science, and formal business contexts suggests its relevance in expressing critical perspectives. When employing "arbitrary distinctions", ensure clarity by providing specific examples to support your claim and avoid overuse without proper justification. Alternative phrases, such as "subjective divisions" or "baseless classifications", can offer nuanced ways to convey similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

subjective divisions

Highlights the personal and opinion-based nature of the separations.

baseless classifications

Highlights the absence of a solid foundation for the categorization.

unfounded classifications

Implies that the categories lack a factual or logical basis.

random categorizations

Stresses the haphazard and unplanned nature of the distinctions.

unjustified differentiations

Emphasizes the lack of fairness or reason behind the distinctions.

unreasoned separations

Highlights the absence of logical reasoning in the separations.

groundless demarcations

Indicates that the boundaries or limits set are without reason.

artificial demarcations

Emphasizes the artificiality of the boundaries.

artificial separations

Focuses on the man-made and unnatural quality of the divisions.

artificial categorizations

Focuses on the contrived and unnatural nature of the categorization.

FAQs

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

You can use "arbitrary distinctions" to describe classifications or differences that appear to be based on chance or personal preference rather than logic. For example: "The judge was accused of making "arbitrary distinctions" in sentencing."

What's a good alternative to "arbitrary distinctions"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "arbitrary distinctions" include "subjective divisions", "baseless classifications", or "unjustified differentiations".

When is it appropriate to use the term "arbitrary distinctions"?

It is appropriate to use "arbitrary distinctions" when you want to emphasize that certain classifications or differences are not based on any objective or logical criteria, and might even appear unfair or capricious.

What's the difference between "arbitrary distinctions" and "subjective differences"?

"Arbitrary distinctions" imply a lack of reason or system, whereas "subjective differences" simply mean differences based on personal opinions or feelings. While subjective differences may be understandable, arbitrary distinctions suggest a flawed or unfair process.