random event

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "random event" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts involving probability, statistics, or discussions about unpredictability in various fields such as science, gaming, or everyday life. Example: "The outcome of the coin toss is a random event, with an equal chance of landing on heads or tails."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It was a random event.

The New York Times

Her death was not a random event.

The Guardian - Opinion

Detectives do not believe the shooting was a random event.

The New York Times

A couple of years' rapid melting may be a random event.

The New York Times

He was looking for the random event that nobody could predict.

The New Yorker

Is it a completely random event that it occurs in the sexual arena?

The New York Times

In order to spice it up, we created random event cards that are drawn on specially coloured squares.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I absolutely would want a partner, but I couldn't let my life wait for that random event".

The New York Times

Fraser said that pandemics are extremely difficult to predict because they all start from a random event: a pathogen crossing to humans from another species.

The Guardian

What's also true is that performance is not a random event.

Forbes

We select an arbitrary realization from these simulations to investigate the dynamics of the random event.

Advances in Difference Equations

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing statistical or probabilistic phenomena, use "random event" to emphasize the unpredictability and lack of inherent pattern. For example, "The selection of participants was designed as a completely random event to avoid bias."

Common error

Avoid assuming a hidden pattern or cause after a "random event". Attributing meaning or intent where none exists can lead to incorrect conclusions. Understand that randomness implies a lack of predictability, not a concealed order.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "random event" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes an occurrence whose outcome is governed by chance and lacks a deterministic pattern, as suggested by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

37%

News & Media

34%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "random event" is a frequently used noun phrase denoting unpredictable occurrences lacking a clear pattern. As noted by Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and adaptable across diverse contexts, particularly in science and news media. When using the phrase, consider alternatives like "chance occurrence" or "unforeseen incident" to fine-tune the nuance. Avoid assuming hidden meanings behind such events to prevent misinterpretations. The phrase's versatility and widespread use make it a valuable tool for describing uncertainty and probability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

chance occurrence

Focuses on the unplanned and accidental nature of the event.

unforeseen incident

Highlights the unexpected nature and potential impact of the event.

unpredictable happening

Emphasizes the inability to foresee the event's occurrence.

fortuitous incident

Suggests the event occurred by chance, often with a positive connotation.

arbitrary occurrence

Stresses the lack of a specific reason or pattern for the event.

coincidental event

Indicates the event happened by coincidence or simultaneous occurrence.

accidental happening

Highlights the unintentional aspect of the event.

stochastic process

Uses a technical term indicating a process with inherent randomness.

haphazard incident

Indicates a lack of planning or organization in the event's occurrence.

unscripted episode

Suggests the event was not planned or rehearsed.

FAQs

How can I use "random event" in a sentence?

You can use "random event" to describe occurrences that are unpredictable and without a specific pattern. For example, "Winning the lottery is a "random event"." or "The power outage was a "random event" that disrupted the meeting."

What are some alternatives to "random event"?

Alternatives include "chance occurrence", "unforeseen incident", or "unpredictable happening", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it accurate to describe all unexpected events as "random event"?

Not necessarily. While all "random event"s are unexpected, not all unexpected events are random. If an event has an underlying cause that is simply unknown to you, it may be unexpected but not truly random.

What is the difference between "random event" and "accidental event"?

"Random event" emphasizes the lack of predictability, while "accidental event" emphasizes the lack of intention. An accidental event may or may not be random, while a random event isn't necessarily an accident.