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Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
arbitrary does
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "arbitrary does" is not correct and does not convey a clear meaning in written English.
It appears to be an incomplete or improperly constructed phrase, lacking context for proper usage. Example: "The decision was arbitrary, and what it does is create confusion among the team."
⚠ May contain grammatical issues
Science
News & Media
Alternative expressions(1)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
3 human-written examples
"Arbitrary" doesn't mean "could have been otherwise".
News & Media
Another limitation was that computation of a knowledge score based on correct answers to a set of questions is somewhat arbitrary, does not incorporate differential weightage that may be placed on different questions and has not been validated.
Science
Third, computation of a knowledge score based on correct answers to a set of questions is somewhat arbitrary, does not incorporate differential weightage that may be placed on different questions and has not been widely validated.
Science
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
57 human-written examples
While an arbitrary selection does not change the result of the algorithm, the optimal tree derived from a decision table implementing these arbitrary choices may be different.
Generations of schoolchildren were taught grammar as an arbitrary set of dos and don'ts laid down by people who knew, or thought they knew, best.
News & Media
Dr. Ma notes that "this arbitrary explanation doesn't contain any real mathematical meaning".
News & Media
I think that number is arbitrary and doesn't reflect all the university experience.
News & Media
"This arbitrary roadblock does incalculable damage and undermines America's climate leadership," Brown said.
News & Media
The dog owners' refusals to conform to what they deem an arbitrary rule does not make them lacking in civility.
News & Media
The pattern is dully predictable, yet the sequencing of tasks feels arbitrary, as does the ending of each section and the work as a whole.
News & Media
However, this data-driven strategy is, to some extent, arbitrary and does not sufficiently utilize the prior information of task design and neuroscience knowledge.
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When describing something as "arbitrary", ensure you clearly explain what action or decision is arbitrary and why. Providing context helps avoid ambiguity and strengthens your argument.
Common error
Avoid using "arbitrary does" without clearly specifying what action is being described as arbitrary. Ensure a clear subject and verb relationship to enhance clarity.
Source & Trust
87%
Authority and reliability
2.8/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "arbitrary does" functions as a descriptor, attempting to connect a quality of randomness or lack of clear reasoning to an action. However, it's grammatically unconventional, often requiring restructuring for clarity. Ludwig AI points out that it is not a correct way to formulate a sentence.
Frequent in
Science
66%
News & Media
33%
Formal & Business
0%
Less common in
Encyclopedias
0%
Wiki
0%
Academia
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "arbitrary does" attempts to link a quality of randomness or lack of clear reason to an action, but it is considered grammatically incorrect and infrequent in standard English. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is "not correct". While examples can be found in News & Media and Science, it's best to rephrase for clarity using alternatives like "randomly acts" or "functions arbitrarily". Prioritize clear and specific language to avoid ambiguity and enhance the overall quality of your writing. When employing "arbitrary", make sure to define what exactly is arbitrary.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
randomly acts
Replaces "arbitrary" with "randomly" to emphasize the lack of pattern, while maintaining the verb.
functions arbitrarily
Transforms "arbitrary" into an adverb, modifying the verb "functions" for a more standard grammatical structure.
operates without clear guidelines
Highlights the absence of established rules or principles.
acts inconsistently
Emphasizes the unpredictable nature of the action.
behaves erratically
Focuses on the irregular and unpredictable nature of the behaviour.
proceeds haphazardly
Indicates a lack of planning or organization in the process.
acts on a whim
Suggests decisions are made impulsively without careful consideration.
decisions are inconsistent
Shifts the focus to the inconsistent nature of the decision-making process.
lacks a rationale
Highlights the absence of a logical or reasonable basis for the action.
without apparent reason
Focuses on the lack of an obvious or understandable cause.
FAQs
How can I rephrase "arbitrary does" for better clarity?
Instead of "arbitrary does", consider using phrases like "randomly acts", "functions arbitrarily", or "operates without clear guidelines" to convey the intended meaning more effectively.
Is "arbitrary does" grammatically correct?
The phrase "arbitrary does" is not considered grammatically sound in standard English. It often requires restructuring to improve clarity and correctness. Ludwig AI suggests that the phrase is not correct.
What's a common mistake when using the word "arbitrary"?
A common mistake is not providing enough context when using "arbitrary". Always clarify what aspect is arbitrary to avoid confusion. For example, instead of saying "the rule is arbitrary", specify "the rule's enforcement is arbitrary".
What are some contexts where I might encounter the term "arbitrary"?
You may encounter "arbitrary" in discussions about rules, decisions, or classifications that seem to lack a clear or logical basis. These contexts often involve discussions of fairness, consistency, and justification.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
87%
Authority and reliability
2.8/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested