arbitrary method

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "arbitrary method" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a method that is based on random choice or personal whim rather than any reason or system. Example: "The researchers employed an arbitrary method to select participants for the study, which raised questions about the validity of their findings."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

Although the homicide was never solved, there was no doubt that it came in the midst of a buildup of tension in the PRI because of the arbitrary method of the succession.

The New York Times

As series editor of "The Best American Poetry" since its inception in 1988, I opted for the unscientific but not entirely arbitrary method of polling the annual anthology's guest editors.

The New York Times - Books

With vast numbers of disabled people yet to be assessed, the entire benefit needs an overhaul: from abandoning a "points-based" assessment – an arbitrary method of testing that discourages a realistic understanding of disability – to a commonsense attitude to the much vilified "lifetime awards" (taxpayers' money doesn't need to be spent checking someone is still blind).

The Guardian - Opinion

The only thing we get in return is that people are grouped into large insurance pools, but we do this by employer, which is an arbitrary method that retards labour-market mobility and entrepreneurship; we'd do better by grouping people according to their astrological signs.This, David Brooks pointed out Monday, would be a very good thing to move towards eliminating as part of health-care reform.

The Economist

The arbitrary method causes not only network congestion and subsequent loss of data but also a waste of network resource.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

An arbitrary method, say MET, is compared with TS by computing the Normalized Min-Rate with formula (15).

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

A few were threatened with filibuster, and the rest were blocked by even more arbitrary methods.

The New Yorker

Dionisio Marenco, Managua's Sandinista mayor and Ortega's longtime friend and loyal collaborator, has recently fallen from grace and become the object of Sandinista hostilities because he criticised Murillo's arbitrary methods and decisions.

The Guardian - Opinion

Louis was as strong in his French sympathies as his father, Louis I of Nevers, and relied upon French help in enforcing his will upon his refractory subjects, who resented his arbitrary methods of government and the heavy taxation imposed upon them by his extravagance and love of display.

Encyclopedia Britannica

However, it is shown that arbitrary methods of measurement incentivize overestimation of real savings.

Energy

As mentioned above, Equation 6 can be optimized using arbitrary methods.

EURASIP Journal on Image and Video Processing

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When criticizing a method as "arbitrary method", clearly explain why it lacks justification or follows an inconsistent logic. Provide concrete examples to support your claim.

Common error

Avoid labeling a method as "arbitrary method" simply because you disagree with it. Ensure a thorough understanding of the method's underlying rationale before using this term, as it implies a fundamental lack of reason or system, and it may simply be a non-conventional approach.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "arbitrary method" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where "arbitrary" modifies the noun "method". Ludwig AI confirms its usability in describing processes lacking clear rationale, often implying criticism. Examples show it describing selection processes and scientific methodologies.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "arbitrary method" describes a procedure lacking clear justification, potentially leading to unreliable results. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's grammatically sound and often used to express criticism or skepticism. While most frequent in scientific and news contexts, careful usage is recommended, ensuring you articulate the reasons for perceived arbitrariness. Consider "random approach" or "subjective technique" as alternatives, depending on the specific nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

random approach

Emphasizes the lack of a specific pattern or reason in the method.

subjective technique

Highlights the influence of personal feelings or opinions on the method.

discretionary procedure

Focuses on the freedom to decide or choose, lacking strict guidelines.

unreasoned methodology

Stresses the absence of logical reasoning or justification in the method.

unprincipled system

Highlights the lack of consistent principles or rules.

capricious process

Indicates that the method is determined by sudden and unaccountable changes of mood or behavior.

haphazard strategy

Suggests a lack of planning or organization in the method.

erratic tactic

Emphasizes the unpredictable and inconsistent nature of the method.

unregulated process

Implies a lack of formal rules or guidelines governing the method.

unstructured technique

Highlights the absence of a defined structure or framework in the method.

FAQs

What does "arbitrary method" mean?

An "arbitrary method" refers to a process or technique that is based on random choice or personal whim, rather than any specific reason, system, or plan. It often implies a lack of rational justification or consistent application.

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

You might say, "The selection of participants seemed to follow an "arbitrary method", raising concerns about bias" or "The company's decision-making process relies on what appears to be an "arbitrary method", leading to unpredictable outcomes."

What are some alternatives to "arbitrary method"?

You can use alternatives like "random approach", "subjective technique", or "discretionary procedure" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to describe a method as "arbitrary method"?

It's appropriate to describe a method as "arbitrary method" when it demonstrably lacks a consistent or rational basis, and its outcomes appear to be determined by chance or personal preference rather than objective criteria. Ensure that you can provide evidence to support this characterization.