arbitrary selection

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "arbitrary selection" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a choice made without a specific reason or criteria, often implying randomness. Example: "The study involved an arbitrary selection of participants to ensure a diverse range of opinions."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

However, most existing theoretical models of recurrent positive selection cannot easily incorporate realistic confounding effects such as interference between selected sites, arbitrary selection schemes, and complicated demographic processes.

Genetics

In order to avoid the arbitrary selection of genes, we selected all 20 oxidative stress-related SNPs available in the NAS database.

Environmental Health: A Global Access Science Source

These arbitrary selection criteria were used in order to select a reasonable number of municipalities with a high and statistically significant risk excess.

BMC Cancer

That arbitrary selection, nothing more.

The New York Times - Books

The Hotel Bernina had been an arbitrary selection from Switzerland Tourism's list.

The New York Times - Travel

Validation of these arbitrary selection criteria await appropriately designed and controlled outcome studies.

Nature

First, a grey clustering-based indicator system is developed to avoid the arbitrary selection of indicators.

Expert Systems with Applications

Inability to cope with traffic jams, arbitrary selection of construction sites accompanied by the destruction of historic buildings.

The New York Times

An arbitrary selection: Beijing Dadong Roast Duck Restaurant (Building 3, Tuanjiehu Beijou, East Third Ring Road, southeast corner of Changhong Qiao, Chaoyang, Tel: [phone]).

The New York Times

Using an entirely unscientific yardstick ‑ how many times they were mentioned in British national newspapers ‑ we present our arbitrary selection of the newsmakers of the year.

The Guardian

Natural maple cabinets with simple paneled doors were intended to harmonize with the surroundings -- an arbitrary selection, because there is no maple in the rest of the apartment.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a selection process, clarify if the "arbitrary selection" was intentional (e.g., to avoid bias) or unintentional (e.g., due to lack of data).

Common error

Don't equate "arbitrary selection" with an insignificant choice. Even if the selection criteria are not predetermined, the consequences of the choice can still be significant.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "arbitrary selection" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the act of choosing something without a clear or justifiable reason. Ludwig AI confirms that the expression is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

55%

News & Media

25%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "arbitrary selection" is a commonly used noun phrase that signifies a choice made without specific reasoning or defined criteria. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It appears frequently in scientific, news, and academic contexts to describe a selection process lacking a clear rationale. While alternatives like "random choice" or "unreasoned selection" exist, the phrase's directness and widespread use make it a valuable tool for conveying a sense of impartiality or lack of predetermination in various domains. When using this phrase, ensure the context clarifies whether the "arbitrary selection" was intentional or unintentional to avoid misinterpretations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

random choice

This alternative emphasizes the randomness of the selection process.

haphazard choice

This alternative implies a lack of planning or organization in the selection.

unreasoned selection

This phrase directly highlights the absence of a reasoned basis for the selection.

subjective choice

This alternative suggests the selection is based on personal feelings or opinions rather than objective criteria.

discretionary choice

This implies the selection is based on someone's judgment, which may not be explicitly justified.

capricious selection

This alternative suggests the selection is whimsical or impulsive.

unjustified choice

Highlights that the selection lacks a valid reason.

randomized selection

This emphasizes the randomness using a more formal term.

non-specific selection

Indicates that the selection criteria are broad or undefined.

chance selection

Selection happened by chance.

FAQs

What does "arbitrary selection" mean in research?

In research, "arbitrary selection" often refers to a method of choosing participants or data points without a specific, pre-defined rationale. This approach can sometimes be used to minimize bias or explore a wide range of possibilities, but it's important to acknowledge the potential limitations of such a method. For more structured methods, consider a '"randomized selection"'.

How can I avoid "arbitrary selection" in my study design?

To avoid "arbitrary selection", define clear and justifiable criteria for participant or data selection. Document your rationale and consider using systematic or "random sampling" techniques to ensure objectivity and rigor.

What are some alternatives to "arbitrary selection"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "arbitrary selection" include "random choice", "haphazard choice", "unreasoned selection", or "subjective choice". The best alternative will depend on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "arbitrary selection" always a negative thing?

Not necessarily. While it can imply a lack of rigor or justification, "arbitrary selection" can be a valid approach in exploratory research or when attempting to avoid pre-existing biases. However, it's crucial to acknowledge the limitations and potential biases introduced by such a selection method.